“Dusty Crystal" is an emotional journey through the dreams, disillusionments and hopes of Maryna Mukisa and her two friends, as they navigate the tumultuous landscape of post-secondary school education in Uganda. They each struggle to find their footing in a job market that constantly chips away at their idealism, while their dreams of becoming scientists wane, obscured by the “dust” of societal decay. Through Maryna's lens, we witness not only the trials of securing employment and battling inner conflict but also the broader struggles of developing African nations grappling with economic and systemic inequities. "Dusty Crystal" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, here embodied in Maryna in the face of adversity, offering a stark yet hopeful portrayal of individuals striving to make it in a world plagued by hurdles beyond their control.
YB
2025-11-18 08:23:21Dusty Crystal by Daina Kimono Akoto
I enjoyed every bit of this book. This story is so profoundly realistic and relatable. It is a story that speaks an experience so familiar yet kept quiet and hidden away. This is a book is a voice for many hushed voices. Furthermore, its book cover particularly stands out for me with its unique pattern that reminds me so much of Africentric concepts. So thankful I got the chance to read it!
