Home Is Where the Heart Is

by Geraldine Cox

Story of an Australian woman who found her true purpose in caring for Cambodian orphans; as one of the few foreigners ever to be granted Cambodian citizenship she paints a vivid picture of the country and her life.

Genres: Nonfiction, Travel

328 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2000

Reviews

[Tony · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting and intriguing book and really showcased how much difference an individual can make on a situation. I have a like for all things Cambodian and so I suppose I was a little biased but reading about Phnom Penh in the 1970's to the 1990's was fascinating and made me reflect on how much, and in some ways how little, things have changed there. Another interesting aspect was that it was written so honestly that in some ways I grew to actually dislike the author - feeling she was very selfish on occasions. In the end I accepted she was being brutally honest and called a spade a spade and my feelings vacillated between dislike and admiration. She pioneered the orphanage business in Cambodia and from my own knowledge I know this has morphed into an unwelcome tourist attraction (some orphanages that is). This would be a good book to read while on a South East Asia holiday.

[Nava Sabet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Found this gem in my local pop up library and I think it is one of my all time favourites. Genevieve is an Australian woman who falls in love with Cambodia and it’s people. I learnt so much from this book about that part of the world and the real lived experiences of people there through decades of conflict. Through her quirky, hilarious and vivid storytelling, mixed with detailed recollections of that time, I learnt about the extraordinary things that an ordinary human being can achieve when their sense of purpose is channeled over a sustained period of time towards service to others. I found it really inspiring, and it made me reflect on my own life and choices.

I know it seems like a random book, but I wouldn’t hesitate to give it a read. You’ll feel like a more whole person after doing so.

[Minxx Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Geraldine's story is both heart breaking and uplifting. What an incredible true story of a woman's determination, which has, 15 years later, literally saved the lives of hundreds of Cambodian children.

Some parts are distressing, but Geraldine did not sugar coat the story for the faint-hearted. I'm really glad she didn't, as the truth needs to be told about the recent history of Cambodia in order for foreigners to understand their plight.

I'm so pleased to be able to assist Geraldine with her work through sales of my own book, The Lie Cycle. She is truly remarkable.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Al do you remember giving mum this book. You wrote in the front that wholst it wasnt morrie at least the kids on the cover are wearing thongs. You are so odd.
But this book is brilliant!!! A great read when i was going to Cambodia though.

[Tania Pearce · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing woman. It's a pity more of us can't make a difference in the life of a child like she has.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

As the mother of children adopted from Cambodia, Geraldine's love for her kids in the orphanage resonated with me. She is one gutsy woman whose story had me laughing and crying throughout.

[Maggie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Was disappointed with this book - had been looking forward to reading the story. The fascination with this book comes from a life long interest in, and recent visit to, Cambodia. Found the first half of the book concerning her life before becoming involved with the children tiresome. Sure, it established information about the author, and pointed out what a change occured when she became involved with the orphanage, but it did seem unnecessarily long and a bit sordid at times. I feel the author has achieved a great deal in helping the children, but I'm not sure I like her much as a person. I am going to hear her give a public talk soon as a fund raiser for the orphanage - maybe my opinion will change?

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

A moving story by Geraldine Cox about her own racy existence and how her life took her toCambodia where she established her first orphanage. Very inspiring story.