I Built No Schools in Kenya

Discover the captivating memoir 'I Built No Schools in Kenya' by Kirsten Drysdale, a raw and humorous account of an unexpected journey in East Africa. This travelogue blends elements of tragedy and farce, offering readers a unique perspective on wealth, race, and the complexities of human relationships. Drysdale's story begins in September 2010, when she naively accepted a job as a dementia carer for a wealthy elderly man in Nairobi, only to find herself embroiled in a family feud amidst a backdrop of political turmoil. From navigating colonial remnants to dealing with family intrigues, readers are drawn into a world filled with quirky experiences that are almost entirely true. With 352 pages of engaging narratives, 'I Built No Schools in Kenya' is not just a memoir; it's an exploration of sanity, love, and the clash of cultures in a rapidly changing nation. Perfect for travelers, memoir enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Kenya's rich tapestry of life, this book is a must-read. Enjoy FREE shipping on your order, but please note that combined shipping is not available with this item. Experience Kirsten Drysdale's enthralling tale today, and immerse yourself in a journey that transcends borders and expectations.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780857988546
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2019
Publisher: RANDOM HOUSE AUSTRALIA
Pages: 352


Description:
In September 2010, Kirsten Drysdale was tricked. Her friend called with a job offer too curious to refuse- a cruisey-gig as a dementia carer for a rich old man in Kenya. All expenses-paid, plenty of free time to travel or do some freelance reporting. There seemed no good reason to say no . . . so she got on a plane.


Only Kirsten's friend hadn't given her the full story. It was only on arrival in Nairobi that she discovered the rich old man's family was fighting a war around him, and that she would be on the front line. Caught in the crossfire of all kinds of wild accusations, she also had to spy on his wife, keep his daughter placated, rebuff his marriage proposals, hide the car keys and clip his toenails, all while trying to retain her own sanity in the colonial time warp of his home.

Meanwhile, the Kenyan army was invading Somalia, Al-Shabaab was threatening terror attacks, the East African bodybuilding scene beckoned, and Kirsten discovered she had long-lost cousins running a bar on the other side of the city.

I Built No Schools in Kenya is a travelogue-tragedy-farce about race, wealth, love, death, family, nationhood, sanity, benzodiazepines, monkeys and whisky.

It is almost entirely true.

This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.