Going home always does something to you. It assures you of who you are at the same time stripping you to your barest. Desert Dawn by Waris Dirie reminds you of this fact through the life of Waris Dirie.

She writes again

“Desert Dawn” is the continuation of Waris Dirie’s extraordinary life. This time, she is reconnecting with her past and going home to Somalia after decades of being away. She is of course a different woman now. Waris Dirie, glamorous supermodel and UN Ambassador was reminded of her “true self” when she had her first meal back in Somalia. She could not join the men’s dining area because she was a woman and was deemed unfit.

Finding her way back

It is  interesting to follow Waris Dirie as she  searches for her mother and father. Waris’ parents separated long before and this is quite uncommon for their culture. Yet, just like the headstrong woman that she is, Waris’ mother has kept her kids and herself alive. One incident in “Dessert Dawn” that I will not forget is of Waris giving gifts to her brothers and mother. Along with lotion, Waris brings a mirror for her mother. Her mother upon seeing herself is horrified with the sight. She cannot believe that she is the old and wrinkled woman in the reflection. Waris’ mother then goes on a rant saying that it was her children, particularly Waris that did this to her.

Better than ever

Again, the images of a hot arid dessert sweeps you up and engulfs your senses. You can hear the baying of the goats and you can taste the ghee that comes from their nutritious milk. In “Desert Dawn”, Waris Dirie has become a better storyteller with a better command of the language. This book is recommended for those who were “bitin” with the first book.

And that’s “Desert Dawn” unclanked!