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Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure
IN 1995, DOREEN CUMBERFORD catapulted herself into an extraordinary adventure halfway around the world. Leaving a comfortable American lifestyle, she moved to Saudi Arabia with her husband and toddler. Instantly assaulted by culture shock, they had to quickly adapt to a complex multicultural lifestyle inside a corporate compound. Danger was never far from their threshold, including the events of 911 and the Iraq War. At the same time, they discovered surprising and wonderful connections between East and West, including the charismatic lifestyles of middle-class Saudi women behind closed doors. Doreen and her family grew to love life in the Camel Lane and discovered a growing passion for multiculturalism and global living. However, upon returning to the US, they discovered they no longer fit into their old life. With compelling honesty, Doreen describes their most challenging creating new identities as citizens of the planet. Her story provides insightful inspiration for anyone longing to embrace the world as their home.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2020
56 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Doreen M. Cumberford
2 books125 followersDoreen is the author of “Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure” - a motivational memoir of her time in Saudi Arabia, helping readers to transform their lives through international travel.
Doreen is a licensed teacher of success principles, working with clients to develop practices necessary to create international moves of ease and grace.
Doreen has lived in seven countries on four continents, including the Middle East for 17 years. A native of Scotland, Doreen worked for the British Government in London and Cameroon, and an American corporation in Dubai. She has been an entrepreneur as a coach, writer and speaker for most of the last 30 years.
Doreen is a licensed teacher of success principles, working with clients to develop practices necessary to create international moves of ease and grace.
Doreen has lived in seven countries on four continents, including the Middle East for 17 years. A native of Scotland, Doreen worked for the British Government in London and Cameroon, and an American corporation in Dubai. She has been an entrepreneur as a coach, writer and speaker for most of the last 30 years.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 8, 2020
Thank you Iread Book Tours for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Life In The Camel Lane:
Embrace The Adventure
By: Doreen M. Cumberford
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
" "Normal" was completely unacceptable, boring and disenchanting."
I couldn't agree more. I have always intended to travel and, possibly, live overseas once my kids are older. In the meantime, memoirs, such as Life In The Camel Lane, are fascinating to read. Doreen M. Cumberford spent 15 years living in an Aramco (for her husband's job) compound in Saudia Arabia with her husband and daughter. This place is a world apart, and I can't even begin to imagine trying to fit in there.
"...I learned that no matter how much I adapted, I would never fully understand this exotic, foreign and fabulous culture."
Doreen's story is conversational and straightforward because she says what she means and means what she says. Even in less than ideal conditions, she maintains an overall positive upbeat outlook and treats others with respect and sensitivity no matter their culture or background. Cultural divisions, both the good and bad aspects, are addressed before and after 9/11. In the book's postscript, she acknowledges all the changes since she last lived in Saudia Arabia, such as women driving.
"We go through life pretty much not knowing what we don't know. Until we come face to face with an entirely different way of living, we are not challenged to change our beliefs nor our perspectives."
As I was reading the story, I lost all track of time because it is so absorbing. Doreen takes us through the process of moving overseas, assimilating into a foreign culture, surviving daily life, moving back years later to the United States and assimilating again but not fitting in anymore. At home but homeless.
"I quickly came to understand that few people in the US could carry on a conversation about another geographical place. Almost immediately I discovered that my Saudie experiences were untranslatable."
She explains how the expatriate experience changes a person, talking fondly about the people along the way and everything she misses. I've never been an expatriate, but I understand what she means about many things. The story is very insightful, inspiring and eye opening.
"I desperately missed Middle Eastern magic...though I had rarely considered it in that framework before."
On the plus side, the story is well organized and easy to follow. I know many readers don't enjoy memoirs, but Life In The Camel Lane is much more like an interesting story than a life narrative. Doreen gives some great advice and tidbits with humor and grace. I think this is a book for everyone, traveler or not, to enjoy. I most definitely recommend it!
Life In The Camel Lane:
Embrace The Adventure
By: Doreen M. Cumberford
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
" "Normal" was completely unacceptable, boring and disenchanting."
I couldn't agree more. I have always intended to travel and, possibly, live overseas once my kids are older. In the meantime, memoirs, such as Life In The Camel Lane, are fascinating to read. Doreen M. Cumberford spent 15 years living in an Aramco (for her husband's job) compound in Saudia Arabia with her husband and daughter. This place is a world apart, and I can't even begin to imagine trying to fit in there.
"...I learned that no matter how much I adapted, I would never fully understand this exotic, foreign and fabulous culture."
Doreen's story is conversational and straightforward because she says what she means and means what she says. Even in less than ideal conditions, she maintains an overall positive upbeat outlook and treats others with respect and sensitivity no matter their culture or background. Cultural divisions, both the good and bad aspects, are addressed before and after 9/11. In the book's postscript, she acknowledges all the changes since she last lived in Saudia Arabia, such as women driving.
"We go through life pretty much not knowing what we don't know. Until we come face to face with an entirely different way of living, we are not challenged to change our beliefs nor our perspectives."
As I was reading the story, I lost all track of time because it is so absorbing. Doreen takes us through the process of moving overseas, assimilating into a foreign culture, surviving daily life, moving back years later to the United States and assimilating again but not fitting in anymore. At home but homeless.
"I quickly came to understand that few people in the US could carry on a conversation about another geographical place. Almost immediately I discovered that my Saudie experiences were untranslatable."
She explains how the expatriate experience changes a person, talking fondly about the people along the way and everything she misses. I've never been an expatriate, but I understand what she means about many things. The story is very insightful, inspiring and eye opening.
"I desperately missed Middle Eastern magic...though I had rarely considered it in that framework before."
On the plus side, the story is well organized and easy to follow. I know many readers don't enjoy memoirs, but Life In The Camel Lane is much more like an interesting story than a life narrative. Doreen gives some great advice and tidbits with humor and grace. I think this is a book for everyone, traveler or not, to enjoy. I most definitely recommend it!
August 31, 2020
“Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure” by Doreen M. Cumberford
A Definite FIVE STARS
I have always loved the Middle Eastern culture; thus, I eagerly grabbed this book. I savored each story she shared of her interactions, and those of fellow expats, with the local people. For most of my career I worked with Middle Eastern countries, so Cumberford’s book brought back wonderful memories of the region and its people and, at times, had me totally mesmerized. Her masterful writing made me feel like I was there alongside her.
Cumberford and her family spent 15 years living in Saudi Arabia in the Aramco compound. I thought she handled the culture shock admirably. I thoroughly enjoyed her stories of learning to adapt – some quite frustrating, others downright hilarious. Stories about the gender segregation, disparities, and, of course, the abayas. But all were told with respect of each other’s culture. Throughout the book, she provides a thoughtful insight into the Arabian culture. And as she points out, the local people were as curious about her as she was about them. I especially loved her description of the falcon handlers. They have always fascinated me.
I was in Oman in November 2001, only two months after 9/11. I encountered the same type comments from the locals as did Doreen. She quotes a response from a Saudi guard: “Same, same, one God-your-God-my God- your children-my children.”
Not everything was ideal and rosy, and she addresses some of those moments. Her family took the bad with the good and made the best of the opportunities presented to them.
I loved her explanation of what children gain when they are so immersed in other cultures and travel internationally. It is phenomenal that her family was so open to new experiences and adventures.
I really enjoyed the Postscript where she provided updates on situations that have changed in Saudi Arabia since she left. Probably the most significant is women now being allowed to drive. As with any country, some changes are positive and some negative.
A Definite FIVE STARS
I have always loved the Middle Eastern culture; thus, I eagerly grabbed this book. I savored each story she shared of her interactions, and those of fellow expats, with the local people. For most of my career I worked with Middle Eastern countries, so Cumberford’s book brought back wonderful memories of the region and its people and, at times, had me totally mesmerized. Her masterful writing made me feel like I was there alongside her.
Cumberford and her family spent 15 years living in Saudi Arabia in the Aramco compound. I thought she handled the culture shock admirably. I thoroughly enjoyed her stories of learning to adapt – some quite frustrating, others downright hilarious. Stories about the gender segregation, disparities, and, of course, the abayas. But all were told with respect of each other’s culture. Throughout the book, she provides a thoughtful insight into the Arabian culture. And as she points out, the local people were as curious about her as she was about them. I especially loved her description of the falcon handlers. They have always fascinated me.
I was in Oman in November 2001, only two months after 9/11. I encountered the same type comments from the locals as did Doreen. She quotes a response from a Saudi guard: “Same, same, one God-your-God-my God- your children-my children.”
Not everything was ideal and rosy, and she addresses some of those moments. Her family took the bad with the good and made the best of the opportunities presented to them.
I loved her explanation of what children gain when they are so immersed in other cultures and travel internationally. It is phenomenal that her family was so open to new experiences and adventures.
I really enjoyed the Postscript where she provided updates on situations that have changed in Saudi Arabia since she left. Probably the most significant is women now being allowed to drive. As with any country, some changes are positive and some negative.
August 25, 2020
Doreen M. Cumberford had lived as a youth in Dubai but had spent years in the U.S.. She had loved Dubai yet the lifestyle of America was so much easier and more plentiful. As a single mom she had enjoyed a career in the oil industry but when her husband received an interview with Aramco, requesting his wife be present, also, they knew something unusual was going to be a part of this opportunity. It was not a shock when they were told the job was to be mostly overseas, After the training in the states, they were first sent to Japan, which they enjoyed, then to Sadi Arabia. This was before the Gulf war and 9/11. They were gone for seventeen years.
Always anxious for new experiences and adventures, the family determined to adjust to every location and life-style. Doreen was somewhat prepared, having lived so many years ib Dubai, but compared to the time she lived there, much had changed. Still the family learned to love Sadi in the same manor they learned to love Japan. They would honor and adjust to culture rules and celebrations, while still maintaining their own celebrations.
This is a Memoir of this families experiences, plus the author includes other peoples feelings, experiences and adjustments, as well. In Sadi Arabia, the Aramco maintained a compound for their employees for multiple reasons. They only had the commissary and the local open market to shop at. One had to know the times because five times a day, all things closed down for prayer call. The closest city to shop in was a long distance. It would use up an entire day to commute and do little shopping.
The calendars are different, the heat can get to 119 degrees and more. The author feels she gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the various cultures and cultures within a culture yet she feels the Sadi women will never understand the Western lifestyle and attitudes.
This family experienced an upset of their peaceful living during the Gulf War and 9/11. She shares a little about theses times and what effects this had on their community and the surrounding area.
The author shares information about their dog and horse, living with very little electronic communication and television, accepting the sometimes barbaric laws, blending cultures in various ways, changing personal views and habits by 'living in the camel lane". It is a blend of experiences, attitudes and adjusting to new cultures and returning again to a previous culture.
This is very interesting and quite well written. She just seems to dwell on "expatriates" to a point it became annoying to me. The information was informative and is worthy of consideration.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review
Always anxious for new experiences and adventures, the family determined to adjust to every location and life-style. Doreen was somewhat prepared, having lived so many years ib Dubai, but compared to the time she lived there, much had changed. Still the family learned to love Sadi in the same manor they learned to love Japan. They would honor and adjust to culture rules and celebrations, while still maintaining their own celebrations.
This is a Memoir of this families experiences, plus the author includes other peoples feelings, experiences and adjustments, as well. In Sadi Arabia, the Aramco maintained a compound for their employees for multiple reasons. They only had the commissary and the local open market to shop at. One had to know the times because five times a day, all things closed down for prayer call. The closest city to shop in was a long distance. It would use up an entire day to commute and do little shopping.
The calendars are different, the heat can get to 119 degrees and more. The author feels she gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the various cultures and cultures within a culture yet she feels the Sadi women will never understand the Western lifestyle and attitudes.
This family experienced an upset of their peaceful living during the Gulf War and 9/11. She shares a little about theses times and what effects this had on their community and the surrounding area.
The author shares information about their dog and horse, living with very little electronic communication and television, accepting the sometimes barbaric laws, blending cultures in various ways, changing personal views and habits by 'living in the camel lane". It is a blend of experiences, attitudes and adjusting to new cultures and returning again to a previous culture.
This is very interesting and quite well written. She just seems to dwell on "expatriates" to a point it became annoying to me. The information was informative and is worthy of consideration.
*This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review
August 24, 2020
Life in the Camel Lane shares Doreen’s (and many other women just like her) story about life abroad in the Middle East – adjusting to a new environment, culture, way of life while still trying to maintain a little bit of their own culture and sense of ‘home’.
Doreen embraced change and adventure (not for the first time) when she decided to move with her husband to Saudi Arabia. I love how she breaks down her choice and how she tackled it head on. I can’t even begin to imagine the preparation and planning that went in to this move (the items to move with them, to stay in the US, etc..). I found it really interesting how she broke up the different stages of this type of life event: arrival, honeymoon, frustration, adjustment. She also includes many stories of other women in the same position as her which gives an even greater appreciation of the culture, the experience and what these families go through. I always pictured in my mind this glamorous experience but many times throughout the book you realized this was not so (the trailers leaking, shared phones, booking phone times!). I have such great respect for the families that work abroad, I always thought I could do this but now reading this, I am not sure I am quite brave enough! These moments spent abroad would definitely give you a greater appreciation of family, life and culture.
I loved the way she wrote the most – she shared her experiences for what they were. There was no judgement, nor criticism of any part of the culture, people or experiences she had in Saudi Arabia. She shared them exactly as they happened and what she and others experienced. Some of the scariest parts were just after 9/11 and still she approached them with respect and compassion.
This is a well written book that covers Doreen’s time spent in Saudi Arabia, sharing not only her story but the stories of many women just like her who chose adventure. It is full of appreciation, understanding and bravery. I enjoyed every moment reading about her experiences.
Doreen embraced change and adventure (not for the first time) when she decided to move with her husband to Saudi Arabia. I love how she breaks down her choice and how she tackled it head on. I can’t even begin to imagine the preparation and planning that went in to this move (the items to move with them, to stay in the US, etc..). I found it really interesting how she broke up the different stages of this type of life event: arrival, honeymoon, frustration, adjustment. She also includes many stories of other women in the same position as her which gives an even greater appreciation of the culture, the experience and what these families go through. I always pictured in my mind this glamorous experience but many times throughout the book you realized this was not so (the trailers leaking, shared phones, booking phone times!). I have such great respect for the families that work abroad, I always thought I could do this but now reading this, I am not sure I am quite brave enough! These moments spent abroad would definitely give you a greater appreciation of family, life and culture.
I loved the way she wrote the most – she shared her experiences for what they were. There was no judgement, nor criticism of any part of the culture, people or experiences she had in Saudi Arabia. She shared them exactly as they happened and what she and others experienced. Some of the scariest parts were just after 9/11 and still she approached them with respect and compassion.
This is a well written book that covers Doreen’s time spent in Saudi Arabia, sharing not only her story but the stories of many women just like her who chose adventure. It is full of appreciation, understanding and bravery. I enjoyed every moment reading about her experiences.
September 2, 2020
Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure Shares Memories, Experiences and Advice. As the author shares her experiences as an "outsider" living life for over a decade in Saudi Arabia--readers will be treated to her first-hand thoughts and views--along with her realistically presented challenges. While she certainly faced culture shock--and a definite shifting of perceptions and freedoms as a woman--she doesn't focus on the cultural differences negatively. Instead, she shares how she could adapt and accept the roles expected of her in her new home--and offers advice to others, making difficult transitions into unknown lands. Readers will undoubtedly read her challenges in retaining her native culture and customs in a land that forbids many of them--but they will also feel the love that grew for her new home and community.
Life in the Camel Lane Educates and Entertains. My perception of Sharia Law is still less than positive--but I can now see a glimpse of the real, day-to-day lives of women living under Sharia Law in a slightly different light. As the author accepted her life and roles in her Saudi community--she developed a greater understanding of personal fulfillment and cultural values. I found it interesting that returning home after many years abroad was a bit of a cultural transition yet again.
Would I Recommend Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure. I enjoyed following the author's adventures in Saudi Arabia--and sharing her thoughts and memories of the culture and its people. Knowing little about the nation, the author's insights and experiences were educational and enlightening--and her writing style kept me engaged in the novel from the very first pages. I would recommend this novel to those interested in living abroad--but worried about adapting to a new culture and lifestyle as a family--but I would recommend it to those curious about Saudi Arabia as well.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. All opinions are my own.
Life in the Camel Lane Educates and Entertains. My perception of Sharia Law is still less than positive--but I can now see a glimpse of the real, day-to-day lives of women living under Sharia Law in a slightly different light. As the author accepted her life and roles in her Saudi community--she developed a greater understanding of personal fulfillment and cultural values. I found it interesting that returning home after many years abroad was a bit of a cultural transition yet again.
Would I Recommend Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure. I enjoyed following the author's adventures in Saudi Arabia--and sharing her thoughts and memories of the culture and its people. Knowing little about the nation, the author's insights and experiences were educational and enlightening--and her writing style kept me engaged in the novel from the very first pages. I would recommend this novel to those interested in living abroad--but worried about adapting to a new culture and lifestyle as a family--but I would recommend it to those curious about Saudi Arabia as well.
I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 6, 2020
From the moment I began running my first interview, I discovered a passion for hearing people's stories, especially those lived in a unique way. Life Outside the Camel Lane offers me just that. It is a personal memoir of the author's many years living in a corporate compound in Saudi Arabia. As well she reached out to other ex-pats and sprinkles their memories here and there to give us an even more diverse picture through-out the book. But the main story is hers.
A willing and adventurous traveler, she didn't think twice when her husband was offered a position with Aramco. She folded her business, bundled up her toddler and embraced this new adventure. The family first landed in Japan where they spent a few years surrounded by a bustling and vibrant energy. Then it was off to Saudi Arabia and life in the dessert living in a gated and guarded community. Cumberford was living as corporate wife and mother surrounded by people from many different cultures and religion. The compound was full of activities, but is was still a fenced in area. This became more claustrophobic after 911. The call to prayer five times a day became a rhythm that defined their day as everything would close down when it rang out. It was sometimes challenging for the family to make the mental shifts required to be able to embrace all the wonderful experiences this new place could offer. But face it they did and it was worth the effort.
With honesty, Cumberford shares about her choice to sometimes wear the traditional abaya out in public (there were some benefits), the difficulty getting groceries, the hoarding that took place when you found a rare item, her interactions with the multicultural community within the compound as well as those experienced on her excursions out into the exotic world that surrounded her such as a visit to Bedouins. I really loved the Taco Bell story she shared about another couple she knew. And all through the book, the authors shares about how these experiences opened her up, widened her vision and changed her in wonderful ways.
A willing and adventurous traveler, she didn't think twice when her husband was offered a position with Aramco. She folded her business, bundled up her toddler and embraced this new adventure. The family first landed in Japan where they spent a few years surrounded by a bustling and vibrant energy. Then it was off to Saudi Arabia and life in the dessert living in a gated and guarded community. Cumberford was living as corporate wife and mother surrounded by people from many different cultures and religion. The compound was full of activities, but is was still a fenced in area. This became more claustrophobic after 911. The call to prayer five times a day became a rhythm that defined their day as everything would close down when it rang out. It was sometimes challenging for the family to make the mental shifts required to be able to embrace all the wonderful experiences this new place could offer. But face it they did and it was worth the effort.
With honesty, Cumberford shares about her choice to sometimes wear the traditional abaya out in public (there were some benefits), the difficulty getting groceries, the hoarding that took place when you found a rare item, her interactions with the multicultural community within the compound as well as those experienced on her excursions out into the exotic world that surrounded her such as a visit to Bedouins. I really loved the Taco Bell story she shared about another couple she knew. And all through the book, the authors shares about how these experiences opened her up, widened her vision and changed her in wonderful ways.
August 26, 2020
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
In Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure, Doreen Cumberford tell about her family living in Saudia Arabia for fifteen years. As I read this book, and even though there were so many struggles, I was still in awe of how they adapted so well with this culture. It is interesting how she describes the women of this culture and how she found unique ways to interact with them, especially since the freedom of woman is far from what it is in the US. I can’t even imagine how different it was to be in this situation, the culture shock from living in the US and starting a life in a country such as Saudia Arabia. But yet for me I think it would be fun to live among these people, learning their way of life, and meeting these ladies that will teach so much about their culture. But since I can’t so that, I loved reading about it in this special book. And I am so grateful to this author for writing this book. Her vivid descriptions of Saudia Arabia and it’s people are so well crafted, it made me feel like I was there, living the life with them. This is a book I plan to keep for a good while, just to pick up and read through some of the parts that are special to me.
And oh, I can’t forget about awesome cover. I love the camel, the sand, the sunset, it is all so beautiful. Camels always fascinate me, and I love this cute little fellow on the cover. If you want to read a book that’s a bit different, for me anyway, and gives you perfect insight into another part of our world, I recommend this book for you! You can read it all at once, or just a little at a time. But most of all you will enjoy your trip to Saudia Arabia!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
In Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure, Doreen Cumberford tell about her family living in Saudia Arabia for fifteen years. As I read this book, and even though there were so many struggles, I was still in awe of how they adapted so well with this culture. It is interesting how she describes the women of this culture and how she found unique ways to interact with them, especially since the freedom of woman is far from what it is in the US. I can’t even imagine how different it was to be in this situation, the culture shock from living in the US and starting a life in a country such as Saudia Arabia. But yet for me I think it would be fun to live among these people, learning their way of life, and meeting these ladies that will teach so much about their culture. But since I can’t so that, I loved reading about it in this special book. And I am so grateful to this author for writing this book. Her vivid descriptions of Saudia Arabia and it’s people are so well crafted, it made me feel like I was there, living the life with them. This is a book I plan to keep for a good while, just to pick up and read through some of the parts that are special to me.
And oh, I can’t forget about awesome cover. I love the camel, the sand, the sunset, it is all so beautiful. Camels always fascinate me, and I love this cute little fellow on the cover. If you want to read a book that’s a bit different, for me anyway, and gives you perfect insight into another part of our world, I recommend this book for you! You can read it all at once, or just a little at a time. But most of all you will enjoy your trip to Saudia Arabia!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
August 21, 2020
Doreen M. Cumberford has written a wonderful book that chronicles one of her journeys in her Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure. During the 1990s, her family decides to move from the United States to Saudi Arabia. I could not imagine the changes they experienced from living in such a different country with a quite a bit different culture. With the adventure, there were times of danger and uncertainly, as well. During the adjustment, Doreen learns about the Saudi Arabian women and found a way to connect with them. To her surprise, she finds that she loved living abroad. It was interesting to see how she adjusted and dealt with her many transitions and where she mostly found where home really was. I loved learning more about the world through her words. I had no problem having the whole book read in one day. Which was time well spent.
I am giving Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure four stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy to read about adventures, cultures, and countries outside the United States. I think many readers would find inspiration within the pages. I most definitely think this is one book that should not be missed. They would not be disappointed taking a journey with Doreen M Cumberford. I would love to read more about her adventures in the future.
I received Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure four stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy to read about adventures, cultures, and countries outside the United States. I think many readers would find inspiration within the pages. I most definitely think this is one book that should not be missed. They would not be disappointed taking a journey with Doreen M Cumberford. I would love to read more about her adventures in the future.
I received Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
August 29, 2020
Thank you to iRead Book Tours and to the author of this book for providing me a copy of Life in the Camel Lane by Doreen M. Cumberford.
When I was reading this story, I noticed how relatable and an easy to read story. I thought I would spend 3 to 4 days just to finish this book, since I'm slow at reading with my busy schedule. But I was wrong and I really enjoyed reading it. She has written the book accurately describes what it was like to live in the Middle East. My mom currently working there and so she shared her
As a reader you can also feel and see the place where Doreen trying to share in her story. We are able to visit the places and get to know the people as Doreen shares with us her daily adventures and reflections of the ways and traditions of the people. Getting to know other cultures through inviting us to develop a better relationship with our foreign neighbors as we widen our understanding of each other.
I highly recommend this story for readers who enjoy to read about adventures, and cultures. I am looking forward to read more of her stories sharing her journeys in different countries in future.
When I was reading this story, I noticed how relatable and an easy to read story. I thought I would spend 3 to 4 days just to finish this book, since I'm slow at reading with my busy schedule. But I was wrong and I really enjoyed reading it. She has written the book accurately describes what it was like to live in the Middle East. My mom currently working there and so she shared her
As a reader you can also feel and see the place where Doreen trying to share in her story. We are able to visit the places and get to know the people as Doreen shares with us her daily adventures and reflections of the ways and traditions of the people. Getting to know other cultures through inviting us to develop a better relationship with our foreign neighbors as we widen our understanding of each other.
I highly recommend this story for readers who enjoy to read about adventures, and cultures. I am looking forward to read more of her stories sharing her journeys in different countries in future.
August 31, 2020
Life in the Camel Lane was quite enjoyable. I found it to be a fast read and the various headings broke it down into bite-size chunks of information.
The insight and experiences of the family in Saudi Arabia were enlightening and easy to visualize. Though many times these experiences weren’t all that easy to accept, Cumberford forged ahead. The experience showed her ability to reflect and accept challenges.
It was extremely interesting to read the differences between cultures and the growth and changes over the years.
I think any time we can open our eyes to the possibility of stepping out of our comfort zone with the idea of growth, it can be good.
I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in different cultures and the idea of growth and acceptance of, at times, uncomfortable situations. It’s inspirational and enjoyable!
My thanks to the author and iReadTours for a copy of this book and the ability to post my opinion.
https://pickagoodbook.com
The insight and experiences of the family in Saudi Arabia were enlightening and easy to visualize. Though many times these experiences weren’t all that easy to accept, Cumberford forged ahead. The experience showed her ability to reflect and accept challenges.
It was extremely interesting to read the differences between cultures and the growth and changes over the years.
I think any time we can open our eyes to the possibility of stepping out of our comfort zone with the idea of growth, it can be good.
I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in different cultures and the idea of growth and acceptance of, at times, uncomfortable situations. It’s inspirational and enjoyable!
My thanks to the author and iReadTours for a copy of this book and the ability to post my opinion.
https://pickagoodbook.com
September 2, 2020
Life in the Camel Lane by Doreen Cumberford is a book I found almost impossible to put down. The writing is vivid, the scenes detailed, and the picture of expat life utterly captivating. Cumberford’s story of the expat experience in Saudi Arabia captured my mind, and at the perfect time, too. I’m sure I’m not alone in craving travel and adventure right now while the world is brought to a halt because of COVID-19. Life in the Camel Lane allowed me to feel the sand beneath my feet, hear the noisy market, and experience daily life in a culture, climate, and country system so different from my own.
I found the structure of the book took a little getting used to. I expected Life in the Camel Lane to be told in a pure memoir style of non-fiction. Instead, the expat experience is shared based on thematic concepts such as weddings, living with cultural disruption, and balancing cultures. Cumberford also shares the experiences of other expats in her book. Once I got used to this, and the slight jumping around in time, I felt the book flowed, maintained my interest, and inspired me.
After reading this book, I would definitely consider a company relocation and the adoption of expat life myself. Through Cumberford’s experience, I came to appreciate that it’s not always easy, but there are always opportunities to grow, learn, and become a global citizen with an adventurous perspective on the world. I found Cumberford’s writer voice to be kind, loving, and wise. Life in the Camel Lane is a book I know I’ll return to as it is a fascinating place-and-time study.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves reading about different cultures, travel, and thinking outside of the box.
I found the structure of the book took a little getting used to. I expected Life in the Camel Lane to be told in a pure memoir style of non-fiction. Instead, the expat experience is shared based on thematic concepts such as weddings, living with cultural disruption, and balancing cultures. Cumberford also shares the experiences of other expats in her book. Once I got used to this, and the slight jumping around in time, I felt the book flowed, maintained my interest, and inspired me.
After reading this book, I would definitely consider a company relocation and the adoption of expat life myself. Through Cumberford’s experience, I came to appreciate that it’s not always easy, but there are always opportunities to grow, learn, and become a global citizen with an adventurous perspective on the world. I found Cumberford’s writer voice to be kind, loving, and wise. Life in the Camel Lane is a book I know I’ll return to as it is a fascinating place-and-time study.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves reading about different cultures, travel, and thinking outside of the box.
April 4, 2021
Amazed at changes
I first went to USA in 1970 and my experience was similar in some instances, but far different in many, many others.The restrictions were much tighter. My wife did join me after I had spent almost a year. Our three children a boy and two girls went to school elsewhere, because at that time the boy was welcome to be with us, but the girls were not, regarding much stronger religious and other expat living.
I first went to USA in 1970 and my experience was similar in some instances, but far different in many, many others.The restrictions were much tighter. My wife did join me after I had spent almost a year. Our three children a boy and two girls went to school elsewhere, because at that time the boy was welcome to be with us, but the girls were not, regarding much stronger religious and other expat living.
August 31, 2020
Life in the Camel Lane: Embrace the Adventure by Doreen M. Cumberford was a well written book that was filled with stories, facts, and knowledge. I liked how the author shared her own experiences as it allowed me to get a glimpse of things through her eyes and the eyes of others. I found it very educational, though I don't believe I would want to travel to Saudi Arabia nor live there myself.
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