Book review: From Ashes to Beauty

The book in short is a journey of a black woman through divorce, but packed with bone chilling and blood curdling events of the pain and turmoil she suffered during her 10 year marriage and her subsequent divorce.

This is a no-holds barred book detailing every step of the way Thuba went through and how she had to manoeuvre towards the exit of this abusive marriage. Though the book is more suited for women contemplating divorce or just recently divorced, I however found it to be relevant to us married men as well, in that, it forces us (at least it did me) to take a look in the mirror and do some introspection regarding our conducts in our marriages, then hopefully mend our ways and our marriages before it’s too late.

Having seen first hand, the pain divorce causes to women and children alike, as a product of divorced parents myself and observing life after divorce with several of my male friends, the book gave me an opportunity to understand the pain many modern women go through at the hands of abusive men in the name of love. It also made me understand why certain divorcees act a certain way. I however love how frank and open Thuba is, in sharing her opinions and giving constructive advice to women who may find themselves in a similar situation. It also highlights how important a support system i.e. family, friends and even strangers is, during this time.

The book is set in 3 different countries South Africa, Saudi Arabia and Oman where Thuba plies her trade as a lecturer at the Omani College. She may have gone through this terrible ordeal but at the end of it all SHE chooses to exercise forgiveness and love. By all means get yourself a copy, it’s a good read.

Reviewed by Ntokozo Mondli Biyela

Posted by Afro Kulcha in Uncategorized