Land of a Thousand Hills

Land of a Thousand Hills chronicles Rosamond Halsey Carr's four decades in Rwanda, where she managed a flower plantation through periods of political upheaval and transformation. After arriving in Africa in 1949, Carr established roots in Rwanda and witnessed the country's journey from colonial rule through independence. The memoir captures daily life at the plantation, Carr's interactions with local communities, and her observations of Rwandan culture and traditions. Through her role as plantation manager and her deep connection to Rwanda's people, she provides an outsider-turned-insider perspective on the nation's social fabric. Carr's experiences span Rwanda's most turbulent periods, including the transition from Belgian colonial control and the escalating ethnic tensions that followed. Her account continues through the 1990s, documenting changes that reshaped the nation. The book stands as a meditation on belonging and the complex bonds that can form between a person and their adopted homeland. Through Carr's narrative, readers encounter questions about identity, commitment, and the choice to remain rooted in a place despite uncertainty and challenge.

Readers praise Carr's intimate portrayal of Rwanda across four decades, particularly appreciating her personal perspective on the country's transformation and the 1994 genocide. Many note her honest depictions of colonial life and her later dedication to helping orphans. Readers highlight: - Detailed observations of Rwandan culture and customs - Firsthand accounts of historical events - The author's balanced view between colonial and local perspectives - Personal stories about running her flower plantation Common criticisms: - Some colonial-era attitudes and prejudices remain evident - The writing style can be dry in sections - Limited coverage of certain major historical events Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (180+ ratings) One reader noted: "Her love for Rwanda and its people shines through every page." Another commented: "While her colonial background shows, her deep respect for Rwanda's people and culture transcends it."

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🌿 Rosamond Carr originally moved to Africa in 1949 as a fashion illustrator, but ended up managing a flower plantation in Rwanda for nearly 50 years. 🏠 After being evacuated during the Rwandan genocide in 1994, Carr returned at age 82 to convert her flower plantation into an orphanage for children who lost their parents in the conflict. 🌺 The book includes Carr's personal photographs and detailed descriptions of Rwanda's natural beauty, particularly its countless hills covered in pyrethrum daisies, which were cultivated for insecticide production. 👑 The author developed a close friendship with famous primatologist Dian Fossey and was one of the last people to see her alive before her murder in 1985. 🗣️ Carr's unique perspective spans nearly half a century of Rwandan history, from the colonial period through independence, multiple political upheavals, and the genocide, offering rare firsthand insights into the country's transformation.