Once in a great while a debut novelist comes along who dazzles us with rare eloquence and humanity, who takes us to bold new places and into previously unimaginable lives. Gaile Parkin is just such a talent—and Baking Cakes in Kilgali is just such a novel. This gloriously written tale—set in modern-day Rwanda—introduces one of the most singular and engaging characters in recent fiction: Angel Tungaraza—mother, cake baker, keeper of secrets—a woman living on the edge of chaos, finding ways to transform lives, weave magic, and create hope amid the madness swirling all around her. In Kigali, Angel runs a bustling business: baking cakes for all occasions—cakes filled with vibrant color, buttery richness, and, most of all, a sense of hope only Angel can deliver.…A CIA agent’s wife seeks the perfect holiday cake but walks away with something far sweeter…a former boy-soldier orders an engagement cake, then, between sips of tea, shares an enthralling story…weary human rights workers…lovesick limo drivers. Amid this cacophony of native tongues, love affairs, and confessions, Angel’s kitchen is an oasis where people tell their secrets, where hope abounds and help awaits. In this unlikely place, in the heart of Rwanda, unexpected things are beginning to happen: A most unusual wedding is planned…a heartbreaking mystery—involving Angel’s own family—unravels…and extraordinary connections are being made among the men and women who have tasted Angel’s beautiful cakes…as a chain of events unfolds that will change Angel’s life—and the lives of those around her—in the most astonishing ways.
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"I enjoyed this book a lot. I appreciated the fact that the characters' stories were "based on or inspired by" stories the author heard from people when she was volunteering in Rwanda. The reader will learn much about the value of keeping an open mind, reconciliation and cake baking." — Patti (5 out of 5 stars)
"I enjoyed this book a lot. I appreciated the fact that the characters' stories were "based on or inspired by" stories the author heard from people when she was volunteering in Rwanda. The reader will learn much about the value of keeping an open mind, reconciliation and cake baking."
" A very weak version of "The #1 Ladies Detective Agency." Although the history of genocide in the area was interesting, I just couldn't warm up to the main character. I've tutored women from that area of Africa and that lured me futher in to the book than I probably would have gone. Ultimately, just couldn't finish it. "
" An emotional story about coming to terms with loss and life. "
" Definitely one of my all time favorite books! I only wish that I had read a printed copy rather than an ebook. This one just begs to be read on actual paper. Gorgeously written, weaving tales of heartache with laughter and love. Amazing!!!!! "
" This book is not one I would have picked up, but since it was recommended by a friend, I decided to read it. I'm so glad I did! It is a book that makes a person feel hopeful about humanity. "
" An easy read, this tale is set amidst the aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide and the effects of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Most of the characters are too good to be true and even the bad ones are redeemed but as a vehicle for depicting changing attitudes, it provides food for thought. "
" A fictional narrative told from the point of view of an independent business woman who sells cakes. Through the female narrator's own family and her customers, the author conveys a heartfelt story about modern Rwanda and the neighboring countries dealing with genocide and the aids epidemic. "
" How is it possible that a book exploring the aftermath of the Rwanda genocide could be uplifting? But it is, and entertaining also. Best novel I have read since The Help. "
" Boring, boring, boring - it felt like it ought to be a worthwhile read, but I simply could not finish it, despite giving it three tries... "
" LOVED this book. I was so in love with the main character from beginning to finish. Such a charming read! The condom part- though a titch scandalous, was so stinkin hilarious. I can totally see myself do the same when learning a new language. It's a must-read, for sure. "
" Started out a little slow but ended up being a really beautiful story about a very different culture and some wonderful people. Angel's love and wisdom is something for us all to emulate. It was an enjoyable read. "
" Loved it. Reminds me of the Alexander McCall Smith books "
" not quite what I was hoping for, but interesting. "
" An easy read with lots of short stories. Although they center around Angel, a cake baker, the stories are about the people who buy the cakes and weave stories of Rwanda and the after-effects of the genocide. Such a great story of hope "
" Read earlier this year. A light handed touch on some very difficult topics - ethnic labels,international politics and money and surviving genocide in Rwanda-Congo-Burundi. Very pleasant and thought provoking at same time. "
" A very heartwarming story about the human capacity for survival (but be prepared to crave cake!). Thank God my neighbor had great cupcakes at our bookclub discussion, otherwise she may have a riot on her hands. "
" It was an ok story. It picked up as I got into it. Lots of information about Rwanda woven in. Some things just seemed to flow too well and work out too easily. "
" It is written a lot like "The #1 Ladies Detective Agency" books. "
" In my BC Uncon goodie bag, started last night :) As wonderful as Mma Ramotswe :) "
" The plot is simple, but enjoyable. I enjoyed the frankness with which topics like HIV, female cutting and genocide are dealt with. "
" Charming book of hope and redemption amid survivors of genocide, AIDS, poverty, child-soldier conscription,unity and reconciliation, and Western "help" in modern Rwanda. "
" Delightful characters ~ reminiscent of people I met and stories that were shared on my visit to Kigali. Made me want to curl up with an African tea. The stories made me laugh, and made me cry. A great read, especially if you've visited the region. "
" A beautiful story filled with more beautiful stories. Heartwarming and entertaining. "
" Loved this book - similar to The #1 Ladies Detective Agency series but with more substance. "
" OK, good intertwining of stories and captured feel well, but no literary masterpiece by far. "
Gaile Parkin was born and raised in Zambia and studied at universities in South Africa and England. She has lived in many different parts of Africa, including Rwanda. She spent two years in Rwanda as a volunteer at the new university doing a wide range of work: teaching, mentoring, writing learning materials, working with the campus clinic to counsel students with HIV/AIDS, doing gender advocacy and empowerment work, and counseling female survivors. She is currently a freelance consultant in the fields of education, gender, and HIV/AIDS.
Adenrele Ojo is an actress, dancer, and audiobook narrator, winner of over a dozen Earphones Awards and the prestigious Audie Award for best narration in 2018. She made her on-screen debut in My Little Girl, starring Jennifer Lopez, and has since starred in several other films. She has also performed extensively with the Philadelphia Dance Company. As the daughter of John E. Allen, Jr., founder and artistic director of Freedom Theatre, the oldest African American theater in Pennsylvania, is no stranger to the stage. In 2010 she performed in the Fountain Theatre’s production of The Ballad of Emmett Till, which won the 2010 LA Stage Alliance Ovation Award and the Los Angeles Drama Critics Award for Best Ensemble. Other plays include August Wilson’s Jitney and Freedom Theatre’s own Black Nativity, where she played Mary.
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