{"product_id":"launching-into-the-unknown-discovering-the-beautiful-and-bewildering-world-of-the-sudanese-9781955272957","title":"Launching Into the Unknown: Discovering the Beautiful and Bewildering World of the Sudanese","description":"\u003cp\u003e\"What should I bring to Africa?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe answer I got to that question at 31 years old was \"Whatever makes you feel at home.\" Having lived in the southern United States, I had no idea what to pack. Once I arrived in Africa, I adjusted quickly to the various places I lived. \"Home\" became more of a state of mind than a physical location or set of things.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSome of my most unique experiences happened because I said yes to adventuring half-way around the globe: \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWaking in the middle of the night to find the house invaded by army ants;\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRealizing I was the only white person on a very full bus and feeling comfortable with that;\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeeting someone at a shop and ending up in their home having breakfast;\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpending an afternoon at the Sudanese ambassador's house;\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnjoying sheep intestines while thinking it is macaroni.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is but a small fraction of the story, for Sudan was fuller, richer, more changeable, unpredictable, and fascinating than I expected. The people are gracious, forgiving, and hospitable. The tastes, sights, and sounds reflect a vibrant, determined, and joyful richness that overcomes poverty and significant difficulties. I was challenged and encouraged while learning great patience and the value of perseverance. This story bears my immense gratitude, especially to the Sudanese, who have taught me so much.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Peak Press","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50488410865938,"sku":"9781955272957","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_01f39022-a470-4136-8e1c-bae4fb923f0e.jpg?v=1730477836","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/launching-into-the-unknown-discovering-the-beautiful-and-bewildering-world-of-the-sudanese-9781955272957","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}