I sat on a mat beneath an imagined mango tree. There, the happiness and sorrows of my heart found a place as stories and poetry on paper. I joined the birds flying above the tree, singing Kiswahili songs that made me ululate. The tree danced from melodies of the heart, gifting ample juicy fruits to sate my longings. Meanwhile, children skipped their favourite kamba game, and others raced on a wooden tricycle to catch a grasshopper. Our neighbour wafted soil scent as she wetted the mud floor before sweeping it. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C91RLSPFMy body adorned in a pair of kanga, the breeze knew well of the nostalgia I carry. It was not a dream. I was homesick, and only writing would remedy my longings. Moving away from the land you were born in alters you into a migrant and a wanderer, seeking what is not fully known until experienced and missed.
This collection brings together various memories, experiences, and observations of my motherland, Tanzania. The subjects range from natural resources, love, food, and culture to self-pride. You will learn about the wealth and diversity of Tanzania’s people, culture, and natural resources. This book is an ode to Tanzania and a subtle memoir by its descendant.
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‘A calm voice of Africa’s daughter, nostalgic for the past and hopeful for a bright future. A must read!’
Esther Karin Mngodo, Committee Member of Mwalimu Nyerere National Creative Writing Award (Tanzania)
‘Gonsalves writes about Africa in all its brilliance and beauty with a pure vision and a complete lack of cliché.’
Derek Workman, Editor In Chief, The Kalahari Review
‘This book will inspire the reader to think about who they are and where they come from, and be proud of their heritage.’
Lee Ann, Editor at FirstEditing.com
‘Riveting collection depicting Gonsalves’ remarkable prowess in penning endearment about the beautiful continent of Africa and her motherland Tanzania.’ Fadhy Mtanga, UWARIDI (Tanzanian Novelists’ Guild)
Buy a copy on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Ingram, Thalia, other online retailers, or contact me here.