Discover Well-Read Black Girl Books and the projects reshaping publishing →

What readers think of Walking on Cowrie Shells, plus links to write your own review.

Summary |  Excerpt |  Reviews |  Beyond the book |  Read-Alikes |  Genres & Themes |  Author Bio

Walking on Cowrie Shells by Nana  Nkweti

Walking on Cowrie Shells

by Nana Nkweti
  • BookBrowse Review:
  • Critics' Consensus (4):
  • Readers' Rating (2):
  • Paperback:
  • Jun 2021, 176 pages
  • Rate this book

About This Book

Reviews

Page 1 of 1
There is 1 reader review for Walking on Cowrie Shells
Order Reviews by:

Write your own review!

Didik

Excellent, blend of culture and fiction.
In the realm of cultural practices, the tradition of "Walking on Cowrie Shells" holds a unique and captivating place. Originating from the vibrant island of Mauritius, this ritual is steeped in history, symbolism, and a deep reverence for nature. Embraced by the Tamil community, the ritual showcases the harmonious coexistence between the island's culture and its natural environment. The cowrie shells, with their distinctive shapes and intricate patterns, serve as the central element of this sacred practice. Believed to possess spiritual and protective qualities, these shells are meticulously collected from the shores of Mauritius, each one a testament to the island's rich marine life. During the ritual, participants, adorned in traditional attire, embark on a barefoot journey across a path meticulously lined with cowrie shells. As they embark on this sacred walk, participants engage in a meditative state, seeking blessings and protection from the divine. The gentle crunch of the shells beneath their feet creates a rhythmic symphony, harmonizing with the tranquil surroundings. With each step, they leave behind imprints, symbolizing their spiritual journey and connection to the island's heritage. The ritual of Walking on Cowrie Shells extends beyond its spiritual significance; it also underscores the profound respect that the Tamil community holds for the environment. The act of collecting the shells from the shoreline serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between humans and nature. By honoring the ocean's bounty, the community pays homage to the delicate balance that exists within the island's ecosystem. Furthermore, the shells serve as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Tamil community. Like the cowrie shells that endure the harsh ocean currents, the community stands firm in its cultural identity, preserving its traditions amidst the tides of change. The ritual becomes a symbol of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Tamil people. In essence, the tradition of Walking on Cowrie Shells encapsulates the harmonious blend of spirituality, cultural heritage, and environmental consciousness. It is a mesmerizing spectacle that invites participants and observers alike to delve into the depths of Mauritian culture, its reverence for nature, and the enduring strength of its traditions.
  • Page
  • 1
Win This Book
Win Theo of Golden

Theo of Golden by Allen Levi

One spring morning, a stranger arrives in the small southern city of Golden. No one knows where he has come from…or why…

Enter

BookBrowse Book Club

Book Jacket
A Pair of Aces
by Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray
Two women on opposite sides of the law team up to bring down gangster Lucky Luciano in this gripping novel.

Members Recommend

  • Book Jacket
    Somebody Worth Killing
    by Jessica Payne
    Meet Nadia Davis, loving mom, devoted wife, secret assassin… and she needs a babysitter.
  • Book Jacket
    Summer's Never Over
    by Darby Bozeman
    A woman revisits a Southern summer camp where a counselor's death may not have been an accident.
  • Book Jacket
    Feast
    by Catherine Kurtz
    In 19th-century France, a girl with a magical taste becomes a duc’s poison taster amid nobility and danger.
  • Book Jacket
    The Reimagining of Thornwood House
    by Jaleigh Johnson
    A witch and her ward discover a magical walking house and find the true meaning of home.
Book
Trivia
  • Book Trivia

    Can you name the title?

    Test your book knowledge with our daily trivia challenge!

Wordplay

Solve this clue:

S the B

and be entered to win..

Your guide toexceptional          books

BookBrowse seeks out and recommends the best in contemporary fiction and nonfiction—books that not only engage and entertain but also deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.