"Modest without being demure, candid without being coy, Buckler draws readers into a journey of discovery, a commitment of soul, body, and mind to his task of helpfulness. He conveys an unique eye for descriptive detail that also scans the bigger picture of the peoples' plight and awareness of the world around them... This book should be read by anyone interested in community development within cultural contexts in Africa, or anyone who just wants to be absorbed without pause in a good read." —Ralph Nader, consumer advocate, lawyer, and author
In this compelling narrative, Michael L. Buckler draws readers into the challenging, yet rewarding world of the Peace Corps. Inspired by his journals, the book recounts his life as a Peace Corps teacher after a heartbreaking divorce and a demanding legal career prompted him to make a change. Assigned to a village school in Malawi, Buckler opens his tiny home to three boys, embarking with them on a journey of cross-cultural discovery, personal sacrifice, and transformative growth. Determined to help his village, Buckler collaborates with community leaders to build a boarding school for girls. As momentum builds, a powerful bureaucrat tries to shut down the project and Buckler becomes discouraged. As he agonizes over whether to leave, the village takes matters into its own hands in a moving display of the persistent, courageous spirit of Malawi.
Michael L. Buckler was raised in LaPlata, Maryland. He attended Cornell University and Duke Law School before practicing law for several years. As a member of the Peace Corps, Buckler spent two years living and teaching in a Malawian village. He now lives in Washington, DC, and works for the National Park Service.
Net profits of this book will be devoted to several worthy causes, especially a college tuition fund for the boys who inspired Buckler's Peace Corps experience.