Super Short Summary

Shades by Marguerite Poland, set in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, follows the complex lives of characters in the missionary community of St. Matthias, exploring themes such as family, love, war, disease, famine, religion, and community. The novel centers on Charles Farborough and his compassionate yet conflicted approach to missionary work, the struggles of the adopted Benedict Maitwane, and the culturally sensitive efforts of missionary Walter Brownley. Sensitive topics include racial and cultural assimilation, and religious rituals involving physical pain.