I Will Always Write Back

In 2019, the United Nations World Food organization declared that Martin’s home country of Zimbabwe was experiencing “the worst hunger crisis in more than a decade.”

Reflect upon the themes of Overcoming Privilege, The Possibilities of Cross-Cultural Connection, and Disparities in Access to Education in I Will Always Write Back as you discuss the following questions as a class:

• How might Caitlin respond to the news surrounding the food crisis in Zimbabwe? Does Caitlin’s relationship with Martin give her perspective on the crisis that the average American might not have?
• Could a relationship like Caitlin and Martin’s exist now, as it did for them in the late 1990s and early 2000s? How might things be different?
• Consider the recent food crisis in Zimbabwe, but also the current political and economic climate in America. Is there still the possibility of cross-cultural connection between the US and Zimbabwe?

Teaching Suggestion: As students work through their responses, it may be helpful to revisit sections of the text where Caitlin reflects upon the hardship and suffering Martin and his family endure that may give students insights as to how she might respond to the latest crisis in Zimbabwe. For the second question, consider reminding students that there are no easy or “right” answers.