Belize, teens, School, Friendship 

Set in Belize, Beka Lamb is the record of a few months in the life of Beka and her family. The politics of the small colony, the influence of the matriarchal society and the dominating presence of the Catholic Church are woven into the fabric of the story to provide a compelling portrait of ordinary life in Belize.

Subtle yet rich descriptions of culture, society, and family life in Belize adorn Zee Edgell's beautifully narrated story of a short time in the life of 14-year-old Beka Lamb. Through flashbacks, points on politics and independence are animated, since the political struggles for independence in Belize reflect Beka's own developing maturity and need to assert herself. Two main features of this heartwarming story are Beka's penchant for lying and her relationship with her older friend Troycie, whose troubling choices lead her down a self-destructive path. The pride of winning an essay contest at her convent school releases Beka's grief over Troycie and empowers her to embrace the next phase of her life.