Changing Shadows

by Henry Musenge

Changing Shadows is a story about cultural change. Starting with a typical Zambian rural setting, the book swiftly unfolds to an urban and sophisticated setting depicting discords to human relations, revealing the dilemmas of those caught in the middle. Mwila clashes with an outdated tradition, annoying many traditionalists in the process. Although her experiences leave indelible marks on her character, Mwila's stint in London strengthens her resolve. She returns home more confident, cultured, and different, annoying the conservatives and traditionalists in the process. The climax is a confrontation between the two factions. 'Gripping and absorbing, sad and, at the same time, delightful, most certainly a story of our times' (Women"s Exclusive) 'The novelette indirectly illuminates aspects of Zambian life such as the vulnerability of women and the drift to urban centers' (Article, Department of literature and languages, UNZA) 'A commendable work clearly reflecting the conflict within the changing trends of the Zambian society' (Feature writer, Zambia Daily mail)

230 pages, Paperback

First published February 12, 2014

Reviews

[Kombe Kumisuku · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was an okay read. I expected more from the story in terms of how it dealt with the matter of a changing Zambia. It dealt with it as a by the way kind of thing. There was very little character development and the story generally fell short of what it promised to deliver in the synopsis.

[Sims Sijamba]

Firstly, boy am I glad to have read a book by a Zambian author. It was interesting in the sense of how each character had a bigger part to play. I've never felt more like home when reading a book which is ironic because reading is a great escape. Nevertheless, the book depicts change of culture, roots and destiny. Tales of an old Zambia structure into a new one.. Pleasant read.