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  • Published: 20 October 2020
  • ISBN: 9780143793601
  • Imprint: Penguin
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 336
  • RRP: $22.99

Island on the Edge of the World




The stunning new novel from Deborah Rodriguez transports us to troubled, mysterious and tropical Haiti for a story of friendship, love and survival.

From the author of the international bestseller The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul, comes the captivating tale of four very different women on the hunt for a lost child.
Haiti. A poor country rich in courage, strength and love. As these four women are about to discover.

Charlie, the rootless daughter of American missionaries, now working as a hairdresser in Northern California. But the repercussions of a traumatic childhood far from home have left her struggling for her way in life.

Bea, Charlie’s eccentric grandmother, who is convinced a reunion with her estranged mother will help Charlie heal.

Lizbeth, a Texas widow who has never strayed too far from home. She is on a daunting journey into the unknown, searching for the grandchild she never knew existed.

And Senzey, a young Haitian mother dealing with a lifetime of love and loss, who shows them the true meaning of bravery.

Together they venture through the teeming, colorful streets of Port-au-Prince, into the worlds of do-gooders doing more harm than good, Vodou practitioners, artists, activists, and everyday Haitian men and women determined to survive against all odds.

For Charlie, Bea, Lizbeth and Senzey, life will never be the same again . . .


'Deborah Rodriguez is brilliant at transporting her readers to far-flung destinations.' Sunday Express

'This wonderful story of courageous, obstinate women transports you straight to the beating heart of a colourful land.' People's Friend
A beautiful read . . . If you have enjoyed previous Deborah Rodriguez books, you will love this newest addition. But even as a newcomer to her works, you’ll find yourself so easily enchanted and swept away with the story. Add this to your summer reading list. You won’t regret it. - Better Reading

  • Published: 20 October 2020
  • ISBN: 9780143793601
  • Imprint: Penguin
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 336
  • RRP: $22.99

About the author

Deborah Rodriguez

Deborah Rodriguez is the author of the international bestsellers The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul, Return to the Little Coffee Shop of Kabul, The Zanzibar Wife, Island on the Edge of the World and The Moroccan Daughter. She has also written two memoirs: The Kabul Beauty School, about her life in Afghanistan, and The House on Carnaval Street, on her experiences following her return to America. She spent five years teaching and later directing the Kabul Beauty School, the first modern beauty academy and training salon in Afghanistan.

Deborah also owned the Oasis Salon and the Cabul Coffee House, and is the founder of the nonprofit organization Oasis Rescue, which aims to teach women in post-conflict and disaster-stricken areas the art of hairdressing.

She currently lives in Mazatlán, Mexico, where she owns Tippy Toes salon and spa.

Also by Deborah Rodriguez

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Praise for Island on the Edge of the World

A beautiful read . . . If you have enjoyed previous Deborah Rodriguez books, you will love this newest addition. But even as a newcomer to her works, you’ll find yourself so easily enchanted and swept away with the story. Add this to your summer reading list. You won’t regret it.

Better Reading

Island on the Edge of the World is a ticket to Haiti, minus the flight and travel arrangements! . . . I recommend this book to all readers, but those with a passion for travel will be sure to fall for the charms of Island on the Edge of the World.

Amanda Barrett, Mrs B's Book Reviews

Discover more

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Island on the Edge of the World book club notes

Transport your book club to the colourful but chaotic land of Haiti.

Article
Deborah Rodriguez Q&A

The Island on the Edge of the World author on the inspiration behind the novel.