Banda’s masterful first person narrative had me utterly invested in the scandalous life of the protagonist, Pumpkin. Pumpkin rouses a multitude of emotions in her often bizarre dealings with the people in her life. Her status as the daughter of a separated couple – a prominent businessman father and a poor alcoholic mother – exposes the classist system of Lusaka in the 1970’s. Despite its removal from Hong Kong in both space and time, the book brings to fore a topic we are all well acquainted with – the desire for love in humans in all its greyness and desperation.
It is a fun and family-friendly space to find heartwarming African food and direct connection to the local African community. The center is for everyone, where they can freely express themselves and their ideas.
English Teacher
The Africa Center is a turning point for the African communities within Hong Kong, and for those who wish to learn and integrate with the community not just within the city, but through out the African diaspora.
Researcher
I value the “African Literature Book Club” as I value Women’s Day and Black History Month because African literature deserves a spotlight.
Radio Show Host