Rural Botswana is the backdrop for When Rain Clouds Gather, the first novel published by one of Africa’s leading woman writers in English, Bessie Head (1937–1986). Inspired by her own traumatic life experiences as an outcast in Apartheid South African society and as a refugee living at the Bamangwato Development Association Farm in Botswana, Head’s tough and telling classic work is set in the poverty-stricken village of Golema Mmidi, a haven to exiles. A South African political refugee and an Englishman join forces to revolutionize the villagers’ traditional farming methods, but their task is fraught with hazards as the pressures of tradition, opposition from the local chief, and the unrelenting climate threaten to divide and devastate the fragile community. Head’s layered, compelling story confronts the complexities of such topics as social and political change, conflict between science and traditional ways, tribalism, the role of traditional African chiefs, religion, race relations, and male–female relations.

Storm Clouds Gatheri by Edwina Shore released on Dec 23, 1988 is available now for purchase.

Abraham leaving Ur for an unknown land God would show him. Jesus going out into the wilderness of temptation. Paul's life-changing trip down the Damascus Road. All of these biblical journeys offer insight into our own personal spiritual journey. In On Holy Ground, Charles Stanley takes an in-depth look at twelve-such biblical journeys to show us how we, too, can meet God and follow where He leads. Relating the timeless stories to our modern situations, Dr. Stanley offers solid biblical teaching that meets practical daily needs for encouragement and inspiration. A powerful devotional in the tradition of his best-selling classic, Enter His Gates.

A South African refugee begins a new life in a village in Botswana.

Translations (from both Galician and Spanish) of more than 100 poems by one of the outstanding poets of 19th-century Spain. De Castro's (1837-1885) poetry, often compared to that of Emily Dickinson, is characterized by an intimate lyricism, simple diction, and innovative prosody. Includes a critical introduction, notes to the translations, and two of the poet's own autobiographical prologues. Paper edition (unseen), $16.95. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR