The Garden of Burning Sand

Harsh subject. I really appreciate that Corban Addison tackles these awful crimes. This one was about a child rape in Africa. I learnt alot about how hard it is in other countries. I also learnt how little others care about making it safer & fairer for others in unfortunate circumstances. It opened my eyes.

If this story had remained centered on Africa, it would have been a good crime investigation-law court story of justice, as well as a story of a nation at the brink of change. Within are the people, customs, society and traditions of Zambia in the modern world. However, these elements are glossed over and the story is told through the eyes of a more privileged North American
Zoe Fleming is a whiny, rich, "woe is me" American and her story interferes with the story of Zuyeya and Africa. As the story progresses, it becomes more about Zoe and less about Africa.

Interesting plot and setting in Africa but writing style is facile. Author misses an opportunity to delve into the complexities of humanitarian aid. The plot falls apart when protagonist has to go begging for money from friends when we know she could have gone to the bank for a loan on her inheritance. And her teenage trauma weighs way too heavily on her adult decisions.

this is my first time reading this Author I thought that this book was a face-paced thriller that authentically captures the plight of young women in much of Africa today and clearly lays out the complexity of combating HIV on the continent. It was a thoroughly enjoyable novel

One of the best books I've read in a long time. The story deals with crime, justice, passion, loyalty, mistakes, forgiveness, and above all love. Anything I add will detract from the story; suffice it to say I was teary eyed at some points. A must read.

After reading, "A Walk Across the Sun" I had to read this book next and expectations were exceeded once again from this author. He is one of my favorites and I cannot wait to get my hands on his latest book, "The Tears of Dark Water." His subject matter can be hard for some readers, but I am a huge fan.

The tragedies facing girls in Africa - where corruption and absence of justice for these children abound.

Enjoyable.

Two for two! Corban Addison's second novel is as gripping as his first. Bravely embracing a topic the West now views complacently: AIDS. Though treatment and mortality rates have improved here, in Africa, the setting for this story, it is still killing more people each and every day. Once the story has played out, you will find yourself wanting to meet the next story of AIDS in Africa. This account is heart-breaking, frustrating, terrifying and mind-boggling. It is a story of heroes and victims, of tragedies and those who exhibit incredible bravery and selflessness while trying to help. Sure to be the cause of several sleep-deprived nights, you won't regret a single word of it.

Just like his first novel "A walk accros the sun" compelling and powerful story, leave you with a serious message. Great debut writer!