BEHOLD THE DREAMERS

What does it take for immigrants to survive, succeed and find happiness in America? Does it require optimism and an open heart? Or cunning, ambition and a willingness to sacrifice everything? This novel explores these questions and more as we follow the story of a Cameroonian couple in New York City, and their wealthy employers.
I adored this incredible story. I didn’t feel ready for it to end, nor to let go of these characters: their tender triumphs, heartbreaking disappointments and agonizing choices. As they navigate the glitter and grit that is New York City, we consider the meaning of the concept of “home” and where it can truly be found.
So much Cameroonian food in this book! Plantains, pounded yams, chin-chin (crunchy snack), egusi stew (with ground seeds found in Africa), puff puff (fried banana treat), pepper soup with cow feet and chicken gizzards ... always with jollof rice. The recipe made so much rice I kept coming back to it again and again, much as I expect I will to this book. I feel sure I’ll re-read it in the future and in the meantime will hope for a sequel!