Stumbling Through Paradise: A Feast of Mercy for Manuel del Mundo

by Eleanor Guerrero-Campbell

Stumbling Through Paradise: A Feast of Mercy for Manuel del Mundo follows the journey of one Filipino family, who leave everything behind in order to build a new life for themselves in Canada, and their struggle to find their way. Blocked from finding work in their respective fields despite their qualifications and skills, they must decide between pride and practicality, survival and surrender. The choices and concessions they make will impact their lives, and the lives of their children, in countless ways. And in the end, it will be up to the second and third generations to offer redemption, and help create the paradise their parents had hoped to find.
A story of determination and hope, Stumbling Through Paradise showcases the indomitable spirit of those willing to risk everything for the chance of a brighter future, and captures with great clarity, the bonds of familial love and loyalty, which may bend but never truly break.

509 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 31, 2016

Reviews

[Roberto]

The Filipino diaspora needs to have more novels like this that share our side of the story. Something that gives voice to our concern. I think this is exactly what the novel has done.

The characters were down to earth relatable, especially the first generation of Filipino immigrants. I felt a connection with Manuel del Mundo, as an engineer aspiring to migrate to Canada, the novel confirms what I have been reading about underutilized skilled immigrants that are forced to take jobs like caregiver, janitor, cashier etc. Sruggling physically and emotionally.

It also touched upon the issue of "systemic racism" and how visible minorities have been fighting hard against it, and it is thanks to these efforts by recent immigrants (including the author) that Canada now has an Express Entry System.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have met many Filipino nannies working in Vancouver. These women come to Canada and take care of other people's children while saving money to send back home. The goal is to be able to afford to bring their own children to Canada - the land of opportunity. This book brings more depth to the story. The challenges facing the skilled immigrants coming into our Canada are detailed. It sheds light on those who are not able to work in their profession or find their way and those who are. Great characters. Great story. Great insight into the lives of people in our midst.