The Cross Under the Acacia Tree: The Story of David & Eunice Simonson's Epic Mission in Africa

What a wonderful story to gain insight into life in Tanzania, especially in the early days of mission work. A must read. Lynn

This book gave our church book club plenty to talk about, from the things in life that turn us in certain directions (extreme directions for the Simonsons), to "Does God really have a specific hand in our everyday lives?" There is much that is inspiring, but also fodder for some good discussion among those who see the world differently.

People who seem extraordinary really started off just like the rest of us, but a passion gripped them and pushed them to greatness. Were this fiction you would consider it a good African adventure read. But true it is. Klobuchar weaves the unvarnished story of a missionary family drawn to work among the Maasai in East Africa. To paraphrase the author at one point, not all of this book represents saints in action. Dave and Eunie Simonson are simply people with a passion to serve -- a passion that sometimes gets them into trouble, but one that always serves the extraordinary people to whom they minister. Happily, while the book ended, the ministry of the Simonsons endures. I have to keep purchasing this book, as my copy always seems to disappear to friends or family who enjoy the reassurance that much is really right in a world that produces Simonsons and the missionary families who minister to us all.