Usually, in a short story collection, there are lots of ups and downs. It's the type of book that normally gets an average rating because of that. This book though, it's got strong story after strong story with only one exception. I was only unable to connect to the Mercedes story, and after a couple of tries gave up in order to appreciate the remainder of the book.

These stories from Kenya collect so many perspectives: you get the girl working at a bar feeling unloved, the religious boy meant for the white school who has a child on the way, a convert feeling as though he's praying to the wrong God, the husband doing everything he can to show his bride's family he's worth it, a woman envying another's child, a priest brainwashing his parish.. even though some of the stories are only a couple of pages long, you are able to connect with the characters and feel as if you understand what they are going through. Very well written and enjoyable.
Also, this cover is beautiful. I'm a sucker for a beautiful cover.

(book obtained from netgalley, to provide my personal opinion)