I am trying to track down a book I read in high school. I don't have enough details for a good google search though. What sticks out in my mind is the suffering that the woman went thru. It took place somewhere perhaps in Africa, and the people were all suffering from severe poverty. The woman's husband took the last of their rice and went to see the local prostitute. I wish I could remember more. If this rings a bell with anyone, I'd appreciate a response. Thanks!

Well off hand the only two books that I can recall that have Rice and Prostitutes are The Good Earth-Pearl S. Buck which is a favorite "high school" reading assignment when I was in school.  Thing is, its set in China. The other is a book called Nectar in a Sieve-Kamala Markandaya, but that one is set in India. 

Hope this helps-

-RD

I just checked them out. Unfortunately, no match. Thanks for trying!