“A wonderful memoir about an unusual life. There's much to like about Anna Choongo's book Cultivating Peace and Hope. We learn about her life, which started in 1950's Botswana through her adulthood in Australia. Her storytelling brings to life Southern Africa in the 50s-80s. And though the tales of her life's challenges aren't blatant and shocking, this memoir is an illustration that cultural norms and social mores nonetheless have lasting influence. Anxiety and depression are gently treated through this book's reflections, helping us understand that we all have challenges to overcome, and we all have opportunities to grow”

“This book follows the author's life through her tumultuous childhood that shaped her adult life, and in the end she finds healing and hope...and happiness. I loved reading her stories about growing up in Africa, and I gleaned hope from how she changed her mindset despite what she'd been through to change her life for the better. I highly recommend this book to anyone who's experienced trauma or is looking for inspiration "Keep seeking and believing that you will find your light, and you will!"

“Issues in life are inevitable and at the times things happen, you feel and believe in your heart that things will never get better. I appreciate how the author was transparent and shared real life situations that put her in a state of hurt and depression. It was wonderful to see how she overcame. Not only that, she is sharing her story with others to help them know healing can and will happen; just believe and be patient. Thank you!”

“This book is filled with Hope, strength and love! Thank you for sharing your story. Anyone searching for hope after and during turmoil, this book will inspire you to be strong and persevere!”

“I really enjoyed reading this life story. The author is a great storyteller does an excellent job interweaving her experiences with moments of reflection and deep wisdom. I highly recommend it to anyone that has ever experienced anxiety.”

“During her life, she describes what cognition she encounters, how they influenced her, how she manifested them outwards and inwards. In addition, it showed the life path that most people go through because they were not properly guided and accepted in childhood. Recommend!”

This book tells a very personal story of struggles with family violence, low self-esteem, cultural challenges, anxiety and depression, as well as overcoming them and attaining personal understanding, growth and peace. The writer does not presume to tell how everyone should do this, but instead explains what she went through and what worked for her. As someone who has suffered great pain myself, I related to much of what Anna Choongo had to say and appreciated her acknowledgement of the introspection and continual work required. The book provides a refreshing perspective and as a reader, I found myself reflecting on my own situations and encouraged to continue working on the peace and happiness as Anna has. A very interesting read!

The author shares her story and inner struggles as she deals with challenging life experiences growing up in an African culture. The book sheds light on social issues faced by young African women and the impact these can have on their lives. An encouraging book and an entertaining read!

Wow, what an amazing journey and story of the author’s life! I especially enjoyed the style in which the author shared her story so transparently and truly made her challenges feel so relatable and real. This is not “just another memoir” – rather, it is a story that has the potential to inspire others deeply - even if they have not experienced the same things. I find it incredibly motivating to hear how the author persevered through her struggles and came to be where she is today. Definitely recommend!

In this beautifully written memoir, Anna allowing us into her world, to experience what she had experienced in her life's journey. Anna was very transparent in sharing her real-life and that is what makes this book so special. Yes, she has struggles and that had a long-lasting effect on her. But in the end, she still made the decision to look into the eyes of her struggles and determine to change from there. Anna wants to share with her readers and that healing is possible. I am very encouraged by her courage. This memoir will touch your heart!