It is easy to dismiss The Kingdom I Came to Love by Fernando G. Ting as the average boring memoir. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying this book even if I do not have any connection whatsoever to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I have come to appreciate the author’s simple writing in plain English. His straightforward style has given me an in-depth look into his years in Saudi, making his life a momentary source of entertainment and wisdom for yours truly.
As someone who does not have any close ties with Overseas Filipino Workers or OFWs, it was fascinating to learn about life as an expat. For example, recording your voice on blank cassette tapes sounds so nostalgic yet efficient in communicating before the age of emails and voice messages. Coincidentally, one of my most treasured heirlooms from my late grandfather is a Rado watch, and the author mentioned haggling and purchasing one. These mundane details gave me a personal connection to the author, even if his industry is worlds apart from my own.
Additionally, I appreciated the author’s mention of celebrating holidays overseas, dealing with natural disasters, surviving multicultural work environments, and the photos of documents during his working years. These stories and photographs paint a colorful picture of a life well-lived, and a career that has supported his family.
There are many intriguing parts about the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, yet this book demystifies work in that country through human connections and memories. I am sure that this book will resonate with readers who have family members who work abroad, as well as to those who plan to become OFWs as well. It can also become a valuable resource for students who are still discerning about their career options.
The Kingdom I Came to Love by Fernando G. Ting is now available!