"This is altogether a most worthwhile book, a fine example of a growing genre of African literature . . . " ―Choice

"Mirza and Strobel let these women speak about their lives in their own words, and the results are wonderful. . . . This is an excellent book with which to introduce students both to Africa and to life histories . . . " ―American Historical Review

This exploration of the lives of three Mombasa women reveals the complexity of Swahili society―its ethnic diversity, the impact of slavery, and the varied reactions to colonialism and Western culture. They illustrate the rich interactions within the women's community, focused on family and festive or ritual occasions.