Overall, the Price family learns that, just because they are white people, they cannot bend Congo to their will. As Nathan labours in vain to convert his flock to Christianity and accept baptism, each of the Price women struggles with their own issues. But the Prices don’t know that, of course, just like they don’t know what to expect when they arrive. Nathan Price is a Baptist minister and uproots his family-his wife Orleanna and their four daughters-from Bethlehem, Georgia to Kilanga, a village in the Belgian Congo. It’s a book that is compassionate in multiple ways without failing to critique the shallowness or inappropriateness of some views. Barbara Kingsolver’s thoughtful story of a missionary family in Belgian Congo on the cusp of its independence combines an interesting narrative structure with meaningful commentary on imperialism and zealotry. Fortunately, I did enjoy The Poisonwood Bible. Even when I don’t enjoy them as much, or when I dislike them outright, it’s nice to try things recommended by friends. I do so enjoy reading books that are among other people’s favourites. Shoutout to one of our secretaries at work, Deb, who lent this to me.
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