Breath of Kenya: A Missionary Journal

Charles is an inspiring person and is so capable of expressing himself in a manner that is strictly his own. His personality and zest are illustrated in his writings throughout the book. I laughed and admired the way he told the story, as only Charles could. I recommend the book to my friends and family as a "must" read.

Before reading Breath of Kenya Africa was a continent far away, one with issues that prompted me to give money to relief organizations now and again. Reading Herrick's book put Kenya in my living room and in my heart. I was particularly touched by the story of a widow, emaciated from aids and just a day from death who makes a final trip to her abandoned marital home in search of her red dress. The story later to reveal she was only 16. The author does not soft pedal the cause and effect relationship of the health crisis he encounters. One Christian reviewer equates this candidness to discrimination and judgment, purporting the Kenyan's need for facilitation. Herrick unapologetically demonstrates a need for involvement far beyond facilitation into an axiom of change. Which he exemplifies by making this challenging journey, helping the people and taking the time to tell this story. The book is a potent read and a call to action, I recommend it to anyone whoo wants to believe one person can make the world a better place.

Poetry, Rich text and Dialogue encouraged me to read more. I did not want Herrick's adventure to end.Photogrphs bring the story alive.It left me with a feeling that we must all go the distance to make earth a much better place.

This is a beautifully written, personal account of the daily life, and unimaginably difficult existance of the average, rural people of Kenya. It'll make you laugh and cry, and feel hope and outrage, all on the same page. It's full of grippping imagery and beautiful prose. Written from the perspective of a Christian missionaly, I, as a non-Christian, found it to be both humanly and spiritually enlightening. I highly recommend it to anyone who considers himself to be a citizen of the world.

There are books that open your eyes and books that move you. This book did both. I was truly moved by what I read. It was written in a way that made you feel like you were right next door to the strange goings on. From a purely literary standpoint it is a very strong piece of work - especially considering it is a book that was derived from a journal. It does not read like a journal at all. It feels more like a drama with a bunch of comic relief to keep you sane. I originally bought it because I wanted to know more about Kenya. This book told the odd little occurrences in a way that makes you laugh out loud but it also moves you to tears. This book really needs to be read by everyone but I think women especially relate to it because it covers the issue of African women so openly. If I had to some it up in four words I would say: "I had no idea." I give this book 5 stars and I'm star-stingy.