Living out of a Backpack in Bangladesh
Now Available worldwide on Amazon as
paperback* or Kindle e-book!
Also available in store or online at Audreys Books - Edmonton's oldest independent bookstore!
The first book by Teryn Warnke
Buy in store at: 10702 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
*Paperback version not available on amazon.com.au or amazon.co.jp
"Go explore the unknown. Become familiar with the unfamiliar. Make friends with a stranger. Just don't, whatever you do, don't do your laundry on the weekends."
About the book
If you were given the remarkable opportunity to help save the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in the world, would you leave everything behind to do it? Even if it meant your living conditions included cold showers, squat toilets, and the potential for insecurity so high you're actually trained on how to manage lockdowns, hostage takings, and kidnappings?
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This is the true story of one nurse who left the comfort of home to pursue life as a humanitarian aid worker in Bangladesh; the in-depth, real, raw account of what it's like to live and work abroad in a resource-poor setting.
After years of hesitation, Teryn finally finds herself pursuing the work she's always dreamed of. But soon after her arrival she enters into a world plagued by monsoon rains, brutal heat, long hours, and logistical and ethical nightmares. The struggles of working within the world's largest refugee camp become rampant, unrelenting, and heartbreaking. As Teryn attempts to navigate this new world and do her part to ease the suffering of hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees, she begins to find herself struggling with something she never anticipated. Yet amid all the chaos, she still finds ways to manage the stress of life abroad. Whether it's rooftop dance parties, trips around the world, or surf trips with a beautiful Argentinean.
So, if you've ever wondered what the purpose of a Bangladeshi turn signal is, or what it's like to live in the middle of a rice field, follow Teryn as she travels from Canada to the deepest depths of the Kutapalong refugee camp… and ends up having to make the decision of a lifetime.
About the author
Teryn Warnke was born and raised in the prairies of Western Canada. After completing her Bachelor of Science, she discovered her love of travel on a multi-country trip to South East Asia. Teryn returned to Canada to complete her Bachelor of Nursing, and shortly after combined her two passions - travel and nursing. Teryn began her pursuit of humanitarian work in 2009 and later completed her Diploma in Tropical Nursing from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. Throughout her humanitarian career Teryn has worked in multiple countries including Haiti, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Cambodia, the Philippines, Nepal, Uganda, Norway, and Bangladesh. Her love of travel has already brought her to over 40 countries and she has no plans to stay grounded, always looking for the next adventure. Teryn currently resides in Alberta, Canada with her daughter and is the author of the blog site “Unintentional Dreads.” She continues to work as a registered nurse.
Testamonials
Logan Xavier, USA
"A must read book for the young new humanitarian entering the field. An easy to read story, full of intimate real insights and raw truths."
Debby, Canada
"Well written. Really enjoyed the journey"
Clarence, Canada
"Always wondered what was involved in humanitarian work. Honest, eye opening, well written account of aid work through the eyes of this young woman. Must read if you’re considering aid work."
Aaron, Canada
"Such a captivating read! I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and the suspenseful twist. Right up to the last page, you're kept guessing. I love the ending and vote 'YES' to a second book."