Our Grandmothers’ Drums

Our Grandmothers’ Drums by Mark Hudson, published by Minerva in 1990, is a detailed exploration of life in a village called Dulaba in The Gambia. This edition spans 336 pages and is presented in English. The narrative captures the stark landscape and the daily struggles of the villagers, particularly focusing on the women who engage in traditional rituals, including the significant practice of female circumcision, all within the context of their Islamic faith.

Readers will find a vivid portrayal of the lives of these women, who navigate their roles in a society shaped by cultural and religious expectations. The book delves into themes of biography and autobiography, as well as the rituals and practices that define the community. Hudson’s observations during his year in Dulaba provide a unique lens through which to understand the intersection of tradition and daily life in West Africa, making this work a rich tapestry of cultural insights and personal reflections.