Monique and the Mango Rains

I just finished this book, Monique and the Mango Rains by Kris Holloway, which is memoir about her 2 years in the west African country of Mali during her time with the Peace Corp in the early 90's. This incredible story of how she worked with and befriended a midwife(Monique) gives such a real view of what life is like there. This country has a 50% infant mortality rate, and the highest rate of maternal mortality in the world. Sadly, Monique herself dies during childbirth.

After the author returned to her home in Ohio, Monique came to visit her. Now for all you Ohio readers and natives, this excerpt brings conditions into perspective:

She(Monique) found Ohio the most gorgeous place she'd ever seen. She never imagined a place so green and a ground so full of water. Farms of immense proportions, endless fields of waving grasses, and countless flowers she had only seen in Pagnes (colorful skirts).

You can read more about the book here.