Zealous reverend Nathan Price travels to Kilanga from Georgia with his wife Orleanna and four daughters: Leah, Adah, Rachel, and Ruth May. As the five women alternate perspectives, each of them shares their unique story as they navigate through their unfamiliar environment in the Congo. As the story progresses, each character is morphed by the new Congolese culture. Each character comes to realize her place in the world with regards to their patriarch Nathan and the culture they left behind in America.
I would rate this book four stars. The five women were fascinating narrators, and each character had a distinctive voice, which allowed for a constantly gripping story. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy literary fiction rather than typically fluffy commercial novels. The book’s dealings with themes on human pride and guilt while navigating through the Western vs. Congolese culture was an intense experience throughout. However, the book is indeed a long read, and not necessarily for times when you just want to relax. Nevertheless, Kingsolver’s love of the Congo can be heartily seen throughout the entire story.