I have always had a love for the study of people and culture. For those who don’t know, back a decade ago, I received my undergraduate degree in Sociology. I wanted to study deviant subcultures, and had all intentions of being a leading expert on the world’s oldest profession.

How that led me into a career in fashion photography is a whole other post…

The latest KRead book, Black Bull, Ancestors and Me: My Life as a Lesbian Sangoma has awaken every sociological and anthropological bone in my body.

Plot Snapshot: A memoir of Nkunzi Zandile Nkabinde, a lesbian sangoma (traditional healer), shares with us her personal journey of enlightenment through a traditional South African landscape.

I am still sitting here letting this book, and this woman wash over me. Serving as a lens into a world most know nothing about, she guides with a calm steady voice. From her birth surrounded by death to her completion of sangoma training, she takes the reader on an intimate journey. She shares with us her insight on issues far-reaching tribal life, including the tradition of lobola (similar to a dowry) and the practice of corrective rape.

With every word, she restructured my ignorant assumptions about her life. She speaks so clearly about her experiences that I feel as if I am watching from a perch above.

Remarkably, as soon as I got comfortable with my view, she introduces us to other lesbian sangomas, who have their own stories. Transparent with their flaws, fears, and strength, each add their own richness to the narrative.

I don’t want to say too much more about the book here, other than to say it was one that all of US should read. I am very glad that I did.

Anyone read it? Love to hear your thoughts.

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Kristi K is the K of the KWord. She is a part-time blogger and full-time lezzie. Born, bred and cultivated in Dade county, this Florida girl you can usually find Kristi stirring up trouble on Twitter at @kristiweb.