Krik Krak

I have challenged myself to read books about diverse cultures. Not only do I learn about those different from me and those different from the dominant culture, learning about different people helps me understand and appreciate my own culture even more.

It's easy to think of Haiti as a poverty-stricken country. Though that may be true in parts of the Caribbean island, Haiti is a fascinating country to me. If you're unfamiliar with Toussaint L'Ouverture and the Haitian Revolution, it is worth the study. If you've ever met someone from Haiti then you know they are fiercely proud of their heritage. Prolific author Edwidge Danticat's book Krik Krak is a collection of short stories set in Haiti that you absolutely must read!

Each story is full of beautifully eloquent pain. That's really the best way that I can describe it. I was on the brink of crying while reading each one. I'll even admit that the tears fell while reading certain tales. Danticat also connects one story to another in clever ways.

If you're a deep reader like me, you will find that this book is not an easy read. These are not lighthearted tales. After each one, I had to close the book and sit with my emotions before reading the next.

If you read or have read this book, tweet me your thoughts!