This is a very honest first-person account of a young , middle class woman who felt very strongly that she should try to help at a time when AIDS was decimating the continent of Africa. She joins the Peace Corps, asking them to send her where she could be the most help.
She begins with concentrated classes to learn the language and to gain a basic understanding of how to live in a rural village that lacked electricity, plumbing, or fluent speakers of English.
The author is very candid about how the hardships she faced were not always met with equanimity. She showed an impressive ability to deal with setbacks, misunderstandings, malaria, and the occasional meltdown while still continuing her duties. This is a person you will enjoy meeting.
As you read this book, you will be taken on a fascinating first-hand look at a completely unfamiliar society. I highly recommend it.

The Color of the Elephant by Christine Herbert is a fantastic foriegn fish out of water story in which the fish finds wisdom, perspective, and a fine tale to tell. With great honesty and humor, Herbert leads the reader through a nuanced exploration of a beautiful people and their unique culture. I highly recommend The Color of the Elephant to intrepid readers everywhere.

- David Metzger R.N. author of the memoir Nurse Papa