Product Description

In the summer of 2002, Michael Sweikar and another Notre Dame student, Andrew DeBerry, embarked on a journey of volunteer service in Uganda. In this book, Michael describes the transition from being a student at Notre Dame to teaching a class of second grade students at St. Benedict's School in Uganda. The book is filled with journal-like stories that portray teaching in Uganda in an interesting, often amusing, and spiritual way. Michael not only relates his experiences, but he also asks some difficult questions that many volunteers face today when they return from abroad. Organizations serving the people of Uganda will receive profits from the sale of this book. Don't miss the section entitled How You Can Become Involved!

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #325397 in Books
• Published on: 2007-11-20
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 158 pages

Customer Reviews

Mzungu about more than Africa. . .
I thoroughly enjoyed Mzungu: A Notre Dame Student in Uganda,and I've actually read it more than once. It isn't just another book about a white American's encounter with Africa and its people. It provides a very sincere and personal look at how a young person (educated and advantaged) comes to terms with the reality of poverty and the lack of opportunity that are fundamental daily issues for millions of people around the world. The author tells it simply but very effectively,and his style is refreshingly candid and unassuming. It's obvious that he really cares about the people of Uganda--his profits go to various aid organizations, and without being "preachy" he encourages his readers to become involved. You finish the book with a good feeling, and the author sounds like someone you'd like to meet. Readers of every age and persuasion should benefit from reading this book.

Helpful journal for aspiring Uganda volunteers
I read Mzungu with great interest, as I am aiding a non-profit group in Uganda and this report gave me a deeper sense of the people, the customs, and the difficulties and rewards of working with children in the schools. Even if you're not planning on volunteering in Uganda, this first person account reads with the honesty and enthusiasm you would expect from a dedicated US college student. Resources listed. Let's learn more about our world, I say!Good work.