The Secret of the Bush

Between 2014 and 2016, an outbreak of Ebola virus disease occurred in West Africa. Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia experienced the highest burden, although there was some spill-over in other countries - Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, USA, UK, Italy, and Spain. This was not the first Ebola outbreak, but it was exceptional for its severity and length. At the time, no vaccine or drugs were available to prevent the disease or to cure those affected. The Secret of the Bush is a 'lived experience' story, based on Dr Grazia Caleo's work in Sierra Leone with Doctors Without Borders, at the time of Ebola. Baby Fatou, a 10-year-old girl, and her beloved grandmother, Grand Mammy Hawa, a traditional healer, share a close emotional bond, and together face the arrival of Ebola in their beautiful and peaceful village. This is a story of healing and repair, aimed at removing stigma and enhancing community cohesion, and acknowledges the strength and compassion of children and the elderly. It will be especially appreciated by children over seven and young adults. A collaboration between Dr Grazia Caleo, doctor and writer, and Kremena Dimitrova, illustrator.