Book Review: The Hairdresser of Harare by Tendai Huchu

Tendai Huchu emailed me asking if I would review his book.  He arranged to send me a complimentary copy to review.  You can read more about Tendai here.

Vimbai is the top hairdresser in Mrs Khumalo's salon.  She feels she is indispensable and that the salon would collapse without her.  When Dumisani, a good looking guy, with top hairdressing skills joins the salon Vimbai feels more than a little put out!

As a single mother Vimbai is finding times hard (although she does have a house girl who helps around the house and with her daughter, Chiwoniso).

Dumi is looking for somewhere to live and Vimbai, on the spur of the moment asks if he'd like to rent a room from her.  They begin to get to know each other, have days out and he helps around the house and with Chiwoniso.  He also introduces her to his family and they spend time with them.

We also find out more about Zimbabwe, what life is like living in a failing economy with hyperinflation, white farmers having their land taken, high unemployment, poverty and corruption.  Vimbai finds out a secret about Dumisani which initially shocks her but she gets over this quite quickly.  She seeks out her brother and his Philosophy Club which really helps her out!


A interesting, enjoyable and at times, entertaining read which is very well written - I recommend it.