Nyika, I Love You

This story is about a relationship between a child and eventually a woman and her Shona maid, in the lowvelds of a war-torn Zimbabwe. Seen through the prismatic eyes of Joanna, this is the source for a multifaceted and captivating story of people, culture and personalities. The story means a lot more than black and white. A raw and romantic perspective that can only be provided by someone who grew up in the midst of it all and who is able to brilliantly paint the picture in the language of her African heart. As brutal and beautiful as the reality of the wildlife and her roots – The Save Valley Conservancy, 3442kms squared in size and world-famous stature, her playground. Crazy parties, sad events, hate, love, motherhood and murder, lions and liars, the cowards and the courageous. Tears and laughter as loud and as beautiful as the backdrop of the African bush itself.

As you will see after reading this book, the synopsis of Alice’s life, hers was an upbringing which was arguably the envy of any number of people. A life worth living; her world full of adventure, excitement and enjoyment with, at times overwhelmingly sad lessons. She has contributed to this planet, indeed making it a better place for Zimbabwean wildlife and her people. Her cup truly overflowed in many respects, and she has very few regrets. Alice clearly has a will of her own. Her love will always be the African bush, specifically the Zimbabwean Lowveld and Chishakwe, the Save Valley Conservancy. Alice (referred to as Joanna in this book), is currently based in Bangkok, Thailand. She is writing her next novel, ‘The Flamboyant’, a story about her family’s arrival in Africa at the Cape of Good Hope before the 1850s, her uncle (who is a published author in his own right) will be assisting her with the history of their family’s great trek.

Customer Reviews

4.8

13 reviews

Kerri

Beautifully written. For someone who grew up in Zimbabwe, this book resonates.
Looking forward to the sequel.
Annaliese S

This is a fascinating book about a complicated childhood. The author wrote from the heart. I can’t wait for the sequel. I hope there is one!
Barbara Franco

Although I was born and grew up in Zimbabwe, my time was spent in the city so to read about the authors upbringing in the "bush" was educational. Bravo to those who persevered with doing the right thing regarding wildlife and tribal interactions. A good read.
K.Edwards

I haven't read such an intense and heart moving novel in a very long time. A must read. I love the campaign at the end of the book "don't drop the ball"! This author clearly has a love for wildlife & our planet. A great Christmas present for all ages!
Brenda Brenninkmeijer

It was wonderful to read this book. The way she describes the bush, the smells, the views and the sounds take you right back to this wonderful country. The descriptions took me back to my youth there, the unique barefoot home life, the special relationships with locals and the wild animals that became part of our households.
I also love the language she uses, the hilarious slang we used there, like the heebie jeebies (this really had me in stitches) and the Bata takkies we all wore.
Sometimes it's scarey and sad, sometimes absurd (who takes their children waterskiing in a croc&hippo infested lake???). All in all a tribute to an amazing time in a spectacular country. A must read for anyone who has a soft spot for Africa.

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Customer Reviews

13 reviews

Kerri

Annaliese S

Barbara Franco

K.Edwards

Brenda Brenninkmeijer

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