Right, it was certainly heartbreaking (and ironic) that her death was during
childbirth, of all
things. But although the impovished setting was absolutely depressing, it
inspired me, too. I
realize how much I take for granted in my own life. After each chapter I set
the book down,
look around and see how much Stuff--CRAP I have in my house. The book was
beautiful. I
appreciate the exposure to other ideas and ways of life. I have 2 children who
have no idea
what it's like to be really hungry or really sick. It's embarrassing that I
shop for preschools for
my 2 year-old when so many people in Mali go their lifetimes without any (or
have very little)
schooling. I am grateful for the beautiful & eye-opening read.