Author: Elizabeth Ann Smith

Publisher: Strategic Book Publishing Rights Agency

Published: 2014-04-08

Total Pages: 279

ISBN-13: 1628571969

The Search for Paradise Lost is a collection of uplifting and amusing reminiscences of Liz's travels with her husband, Alan, in Central Africa, searching for an unconventional rural environment to raise her family. In spite of many setbacks caused by the unsettled political situations, her exciting journey proves to be one of self-discovery, opening new worlds beyond her limited expectations, and leading to unusual friendships. The journey starts in 1960 in the earthy African town Zomba, Nyasaland. There, Liz discovers Paradise and revels in its untamed natural magnificence. She learns to deal with many challenges, including coping with the colonial lifestyle, nasty insects, unhygienic conditions, and encounters with leopards and witch doctor curses. Unfortunately, the magic waned with the new African independence. On returning to Rhodesia, an en-route terrorist ambush didn't dampen their enthusiasm, but taught them to cope with the ensuing war years in an isolated school in Somabula. There they adapted to pastoral life and formed friendships with locals, who were greatly amused by their lack of farming knowledge and unconventional teaching methods. Holidays were spent exploring the mystical Matopos and enjoying halcyon weeks camping in ancient Sofala in Mozambique. The tranquil palm-studded golden beaches, Portuguese wine, and abundant seafood made the perfect playground for the family. Once again, political changes forced them to leave their beloved paradise, but they carried with them heartwarming lessons and memories of a lost, unsophisticated era that can never be repeated.