In a remote part of Tanzania known as the Cradle of Humankind, Essie Lawrence lives with her husband in an archaeologist’s camp. One morning a chance encounter with two strangers out in the field sees her making a rash promise – one she has no idea how she can keep. When she returns home, she has a baby in her arms, a motherless infant, too young even to have a name. From now until the coming of the rains, Essie is to care for the little girl. And then hand her back. The Beautiful Mother is rich storytelling; a beautiful book about family, tenderness and belonging. Your mum will love it!
