The Poisonwood Bible, written by Barbara Kingsolver, is an astounding work of fiction capturing the story of an American family's journey to the Belgian Congo in 1959. Written in the form of a brilliant narrative told by five unique voices, the book delves into some of the greatest themes of life, such as virtue, justice, and spirituality, through the lens of a family embroiled in an unforgettable mission.
The novel follows the Price family—father Nathan, his wife Rachel, their four daughters—as they undergo a life-changing mission in Congo, an African country that has gone through significant upheaval in the 1950s. Seen through the eyes of the daughters, Leah, Adah, Rachel, and Ruth May, the story captures their struggles as they come to terms with missionaries, desperately cling to one another in a foreign land, and confront life-altering decisions surrounding death, faith, and what it means to be a united family.
The family gets their start in the Congo following a mission by Nathan Price, a Baptist minister from Georgia, determined to bring Christianity to the Congo people. In Nathan's religious mission, the family quickly learns the hard truths of colonialism, displacement, and economic injustice. Despite struggles the family has to face such as the native culture's mistrust of them and the dangerous living conditions, they remain determined to continue their mission. As the story progresses, it provides insight into the impact missionary efforts had in the Congo as well as the harsh realities of life in a developing African country.
The bulk of the book is told through the ordinary domestic moments, detailing the Price children's day-to-day life in the African countryside. As their affliction with "Home-sickeness" intensifies, the Price children gradually come to realize who they truly are while they adapt to their foreign surroundings. Their unique narratives are vividly told and allow readers to become emotionally connected to each of the characters, ranging from heroic to comedic.
At the close of the novel, the Price family returns to America, leaving a devastating ending for all of the characters. Though the Price family have learned valuable lessons, their mission ultimately results in too much tragedy for the Congo. Nevertheless, for the remaining Price daughters, a faint glimmer of hope is left in the memories of their time in the Congo.
The Poisonwood Bible is not only an inspiring and captivating novel, but one that masterfully portrays the difficulties and triumphs of the Price family and their struggle to bring Christianity to the Congo people. Barbara Kingsolver proves herself to be a skilled storyteller, capable of conveying deep and thought-provoking messages while managing complex themes and characters through her vivid writing. The Poisonwood Bible is an unforgettable work of literature that anyone can appreciate.
