Book Review Henny Maruapula

Henny Maruapula | Monday May 12, 2025 14:54

Through honest stories, reflections that feel like a warm conversation, and gentle steps forward, this read reminds us that even in the deepest valleys, hope can take root and eventually, flowers will bloom again.

“I want the reader to know they are not alone, I want them to know grief is not only about losing a person, one can also experience grief by a lost opportunity. I want the book to heal parts of them that they have never spoken about,” said Keletso Maswabi, author of Flowers in The Valley.

The author highlighted that she lost her father in 2021 and the same year she got fired from her job. This was a very difficult time for her. “Years later in 2024, I had a job opportunity and I decided to stay with the company, only to be fired in May 2024.” recalls Maswabi.

In the four months that she was home, Maswabi experienced grief that she could not even explain to anyone, and she elaborated that the delayed grief had her writing again as she did not know what to do with her time.

“Over the years I have seen people lose loved ones and opportunities. Though I could emphathise with them, it never once occurred to me it would happen to me one day,” said Maswabi in an exclusive interview with Arts&Culture. We’ve all walked through valleys. That moment when life throws us curves, sometimes sharp enough to leave us feeling lost and broken. The ache of losing someone we love, the sting of a relationship ending, the quiet whisper of dreams that did not bloom, even the subtle sadness of who we used to be.

Grief is often isolating, but Flowers in the Valley reminds us that we are never truly alone. With raw honesty and comforting wisdom, it acknowledges the pain of loss while illuminating the beauty that can still bloom in the aftermath. Whether you are grieving yourself or supporting someone through their journey, this book serves as a compassionate companion, helping you find light even in the darkest valleys.

Maswabi is a daughter and a Pastor under the leadership of Bishop Onkeme Letshwiti and Pastor Dineo Letshwiti. She is a writer and the voice behind the podcast Behind the Pen. She holds a masters degree in Executive Business Administration. She is also a full-time corporate personnel in the technology industry.

Flowers in The Valley is scheduled to be officially launched this Saturday 03rd May 2025 at Indaba Lodge, from 10am till 1pm. There will be a variety of Speakers and Entertainers to spice up the day, as well as a book signing session by the author. Contact +267 73 353 482 for tickets, sponsorship or more details.

Flowers in the valley