Cogito, ergo sum. I think, therefore I am. (René Descartes, mathematician and philosopher,1599-1650)

Tuesday 19 January 2021

Solomon Grassroots by Ann Lindvall Arika: new book in hardback. a cultural guide (pn670)

What is it like to move to a new country on the other side of the globe?  
Ann Lindvall Arika has taken the step from Sweden to Solomon Islands. The writer and former traveller has settled down and married into a big Solomon family. In Solomon Grassroot, we can take part in her new life on a ‘grassroot’ level.

This personal and easy-going autobiography, with an anthropological and linguistic touch, is an attempt to answer the questions: What is everyday life like? How do the different cultures meet? How can a foreigner feel at home here? With warmth and a low-voiced humour, the author portrays episodes from her daily living, both in the capital city of Honiara and in her husband’s village. She brings up essential cultural aspects and background facts about the country.

Excepts from reviews

‘I read this book before starting to work in Honiara and it was a great introduction to life in “The Hapi Isles” [...] essential reading for anyone who wants a deeper understanding of contemporary life in Solomon Islands.’

‘...the most fascinating, honest and accurate insight into Solomon Islands culture that I have ever come across [...] should be read by everyone intending to get there [...] I will be recommending that the Australian Volunteer programme make the book essential reading for future volunteers going on assignment to Solomon Islands.’

‘A great “culture guide” with lots of useful dos and don’ts.’ (Said by a traveller.)

‘A book worth reading. I have finished reading it and wanted to re-read it again! Re-commended for travellers and guides. Thank you, Ann Arika.’ (Said by a guide.)

‘Not only her knowledge but also her experience as a traveller give a new dimension to travelling as an art. [...] She also touches the negative impact of the Western World, surely important to emphasize.’

‘She...manages the piece feat of neither romanticizing nor give way for exoticism, a balance act which I think few would manage. Lindvall Arika is doing it with a maintained integrity.

[...] Solomon Grassroot is written vivid and fresh style. Rich background facts and many photos complete this unusual emigrant story.’

‘I could not stop reading. [...] Getting down to the Melanesian mind set can be very difficult for most people of other cultures - but Ann is able to do it quite well. I congratulate you Ann.

Thank you for your writings. I want you to write more about this life that is slowly fading away.’

How to purchase the book

• E-book at Smashwords, Amazon Kindle and many other e-book sites. Price USD

4.99-6.99.

• Printed version (paperback) locally in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Can be purchased at Lime Lounge, YWCA, SIWIBA, Art Gallery (second last pavilion), most souvenir shops or from me personally. Price SBD 120. Phone +677-7491856, Email ann9arika@gmail.com, Messenger Ann Arika.

• Printed version (paperback) from Amazon www.amazon.com, Amazon Australia www.amazon.com.au, Books on Demand Sweden and many other paperback  retailers. Price ex. AUD 35. Just google the title on the internet. 

See also: 

Blog: annlindvallarika.blogspot.com 

Facebook: http://facebook.com/ann.arika.545 

I welcome any comments.  ‘If you like it, tell others (and write a review). 

If you don’t like it, tell me.’ 


Merry reading! Ann Arika





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