The Princess and the Peace Corps

By Lorena Anne Hulskamp

What happens when a pampered socialite decides to embark on an adventurous change in life-and chooses the Peace Corps as her adventure? Giving "the toughest job you'll ever love" to a middle-aged woman who's accustomed to life's extravagances could be a recipe for disaster.

The "Princess" lands in Tonga, in a life of few conveniences and luxuries. Though she has envisioned a tropical paradise, she learns there are few beautiful, sandy beaches, but many small villages, with people who are friendly but who see things quite differently.

The challenges she faces are numerous and life-changing. She is awakened by raucous noises in the night-territorial roosters; chased by wild dogs; challenged by incompatible Tongan ways as she runs a snack bar for a local school; and bitten by a poisonous Molokow.

Instead of stomping her high heels in disgust, this spoiled socialite learns important lessons, makes lifelong friends, and weaves a tale both poignant and hilarious.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0595418694
• ISBN13: 9780595418695
• Release Date: December 2006
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Length: 168 Pages
• Weight: 0.56 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Great book--made us all laugh!

We read this book in my book group. All of us loved it. The way the author told the story of the places she went and the people she met was very entertaining. The writing is very witty and many parts are hilarious! It also gave us an educational look into the workings of the Peace Corps. I would recommend it to anyone.

The Princess and the Peace Corps

Like a breath of fresh air, Ms. Hulskamp breezes into the Peace Corps, designer sheets in tow, looking for an adventure; an escape really, from her pampurred but dull life. She found the adventures she was looking for and recounts them with colorful candor that is almost guaranteed to make you laugh out loud. It is great fun to follow this middle aged woman as she finds herself and learns what an adventure it is to make a difference in the world. When is the movie coming out?

RPCV Gives a Thumbs Up!

As a returning Peace Corps volunteer, I found that I could relate to this book. While I did not know the author, I did serve in the Eastern Carribbean just after Ms. Hulskamp finished her second tour in the Peace Corps. I found this book to show that no matter what your background is, where you come from, or what you are accustomed to, the Peace Corps can be an unforgettable experience filled with hilarity, growth, and perspective. When I speak to people about the Peace Corps, many have the misconception that volunteers are "tree huggers", "granola", or "extremists", but this book shows with great sincerity that even a "princess" can get out of her comfort zone and find true meaning in this crazy life! I highly recommend this book to anyone, whether you are considering joining the Peace Corps or not, you will find a truly wonderful message here!

Very humorous and informative book!

I loved every minute reading this book. It helped me to learn a lot about the peace corps experience and the countries this author visited. While some informative books can be dry and dull, this book was filled with wonderful, laugh-out-loud humor!

funny, moving book

I have never been in the peace corps but I loved this book. Her perspective on her experience was unique and interesting to read. It was laugh out loud at times and I even bought it as a gift for friends.