The Foreigners

The Foreigners is a historical/generational fiction that highlights questions about culture, religion, education, relationship, family and origin and the impact of politics on people's lives. It gives perspectives on African/Ethiopian traditions in contrast to western civilization. It tells the story of childhood friends who started from humble beginnings, the ups and downs they had to go through, their experiences as immigrants in foreign lands and their perspectives as they reflected on their past. From the horrors of COVID-19 to the rollercoaster of Donald Trump's presidency, the thrills of Barack Obama's inauguration, the aftermath of the shocking attacks on September 11 and the on-and-off political turmoil in East Africa, this book demonstrates how these fictitious characters outlived life changing transformations and what legacies they chose to leave for their children. The main characters in the book, Henok, Willie, Mannie, Seble and Yalem, were born in a small Ethiopian town. Their childhood was filled with various adventurous encounters. They immigrated to the US, Canada and Europe. They endured various challenges as they attempted to assimilate to their new communities. They also struggled with their changing relationship to their homeland. But they always found a way to maintain their friendship. They accomplished so much over the years and built successful lives for themselves and their families, but they were not sure if their impact was appreciated. This book shows how they cope with their emotional struggles and the natural human behaviors of being wanted and appreciated.