Title: Chai Tea Sunday
Publisher: ECW Press
Pub Date: April 1st 2012
Author: Heather Clark
Received From: NetGalley
explore the true resilience of the heart and our raw determination to find goodness in a world fraught with adversity
One Woman’s Courage in the face of personal tragedy is at the heart of Heather A. Clark’s debut novel. Thirty–three–year–old Nicky Fowler thought her whole life was mapped out — a rewarding career as a third grade teacher, an adoring husband, and the perfect house in the suburbs — but complicated fertility issues lead to a devastating tragedy. Nicky’s marriage crumbles and she’s left unable to cope with her now–changed life.
When Nicky accepts a volunteer teaching position at an orphanage in Kenya, she finds that life there is unlike the world she’s known. Drought has brought famine, violence is everywhere, and the jaded orphanage director takes out her hatred on the parentless children.
But Nicky finds strength in Mama Bu, her host mother, who provides wisdom and perspective over cups of chai, Kenya’s signature drink. Nicky comes to realize that she must do much more than teach the orphans — she must save them.
As I started reading this book I could not put it down. I was originally drawn to learning about the relationship of Nicky and her husband, then I was torn as they battled difficulty. As Nicky moved her life accross the country to try to regain a sense of herself I packed my bag to join her.
The life lead in Kenya was one I haven't had the opportunity to glimpse into often and I truly enjoyed the Historical aspects, the understanding of life there and the development of some amazing characters. I was really drawn to Mama Bu and how she leads her life and treads so lightly around the issues of the orphanage. All the while she is really planting the seeds in Nicky for her future and making sure to right the wrongs and better the lives for the children at the orphanage! This was a fantastic book and one I am so glad I got the opportunity to read and review!
Hi Gina - thanks so much for reading the book and for reviewing it! I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I loved writing this book, and am so happy it is finally on book shelves.
ReplyDeleteThe book officially launched this week, and I was reading some of the reviews posted when I came across your blog. A lot of people are saying it makes a good book club book - if you or any of your friends have it as a book club book, I'd be happy to join in on the conversation by Skype, FaceTime or phone (or even just answer any questions you might have without a book club).
I will send you an email to the address you have on this site with the same message so you have my email.
Thanks again,
Heather