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In times past, this tale might have
been categorized as rags to riches. The riches here however, are
spiritual and emotional as well as economic. The heroine is called
Pretty—a name that reflects not only her appearance, but also her
demeanor and character. While the tale takes readers on an
ever-changing journey from poverty to prosperity, the heroine's
steadfast commitment to unalterable goals reminds us that the most
difficult obstacles are often no match for dedication and perseverance.
Pretty is a young African from a tiny village in Zambia. The essence of
what some derisively call a "goody two shoes", she excels at her
studies while adhering to the highest moral and ethical standards.
Jealous classmates cause her to be expelled from school and sent back
to her home where she's accused of immoral behavior by spiteful
neighbors. Determined not to let the deplorable actions of others hold
her back, she leaves for the city where she can start anew. There, she
overcomes degradation and despair by working in one menial job after
another so she can further her education. As things begin to look up
for her, she's assailed by escalating events such as unwanted suitors,
unplanned romance, and a string of unexpected tragedies that threaten
to derail her dreams of becoming the doctor she's always wanted to be.
The author's acumen for storytelling surpasses a rather straightforward
prose style. Yet she does imbue her people with traits that are
imminently recognizable and frequently admirable, especially when it
comes to many of the central characters' patience, tolerance, and
determination. Her descriptions of both rural and urban Africa create
credible mental photographs of this up-from-one's-bootstraps story of
indefatigable resolve. You're likely to remember Pretty for a pretty
long time.