American and Zimbabwean culture are in many ways the same, but in many ways different

American and Zimbabwean culture are in many ways the same, but in many ways different, explains Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda in their book I Will Always Write Back. Caitlin notes it is interesting that she and Martin should be growing up together, but so very far apart and in different countries. As they write letters, they learn about these similarities and differences.

In both America and Zimbabwe, family is a very important thing. Both Caitlin and Martin love their families dearly. But in both America and Zimbabwe, families can experience struggles – such as Martin’s father losing his job and turning to drink. In both America and Zimbabwe, it is possible to succeed and thrive, but it is much harder in Zimbabwe due to the overall political and economic climate.

Both the families...