The Monk of Mokha is a compelling and inspiring memoir by Dave Eggers that tells the story of Mokhtar Alkhanshali, a young Yemeni-American man who sets out to revive the ancient art of Yemeni coffee farming.
The book begins with a brief history of coffee and its origins in Yemen, and then follows Alkhanshali’s journey as he becomes increasingly passionate about coffee and its potential to improve the lives of small farmers in Yemen. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, Alkhanshali persists in his mission to not only revitalize the coffee industry in Yemen, but also to bring recognition and appreciation for Yemeni coffee to a wider audience.
One of the most captivating aspects of The Monk of Mokha is the way Eggers brings to life the vibrant and complex culture of Yemen, from its rich history and traditions to its ongoing political and social struggles. The book offers a unique perspective on the Arab world and provides a nuanced and humanizing portrayal of a country that is often misunderstood or misrepresented in the media.
In addition to being a fascinating exploration of coffee and Yemeni culture, The Monk of Mokha is also a heartwarming tale of determination and perseverance. Alkhanshali’s journey is full of setbacks and obstacles, but he never gives up on his dream and ultimately achieves incredible success. His story is a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their goals, no matter how difficult they may seem.
Overall, The Monk of Mokha is a beautifully written and deeply moving book that is sure to appeal to coffee lovers and anyone with an interest in Middle Eastern culture. It is a must-read for anyone looking for an inspiring and uplifting story of determination and perseverance.
The Monk of Mokha is available from great independent bookshops and bookshop.org
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