Africa Books

I am from South Africa, and really enjoy teaching my children about where I grew up. This book has lovely illustrations, and a great story about a boy and his grandmother. It reminded me of the stores, taxis, and people that make South Africa such a colorful place. This book would make a perfect addition to any family's multicultural library!

After living in South Africa for four years in the early 1990s, I came to appreciate the "small" stories of peoples' struggles as well as the larger fight for racial justice. "Not so fast, Songololo" represents both the larger and smaller story: Songologo doesn't have a pair of new sneakers - which many children take for granted - because it costs a lot of money for his family to pay for them. So when his grandmother treats him to a pair, it's a big event in his life. The pictures are lovely - capturing the rhythms of life for some South African children. I regret that there are not more books about them - and not enough by South African authors (Niki Daly is one of the few, and his other children's books set in South Africa, including Papa Lucky's Shadow and Jamela's Dress, are also lovely; Rachel Isadora is an American writer who has written some wonderful children's books set in South Africa). It's a sweet book that my daughter, who is 5, and I have loved reading together. We especially enjoyed taking it to South Africa when we went there together earlier this year, and then gave it to the mother of a four-year-old we met.

This book is full of creative, yet brief descriptions. For instance, a city crosswalk is referred to as a "zebra crossing." Also, with few words and simple language, the author is able to create vivid pictures inside the reader's head. These images are supplemented by awesome illustrations, which, besides accurately depicting the plot described in the text, also suggest stories of their own. As a kid, I liked this book because I empathized with Songololo in his quiet longing for new shoes. Now, as a teenager, I read it because the writing is meaty and touching, and the illustrations are fun to look at. You must buy this book!

Obo is the name of a young monkey, and Bob Anderson'sdelightful book for children, titled OBO, is the story of how Obodiscovered Paradise. While still very young, Obo heard a beautiful bird singing. He asked the bird where it was from. When the bird told him it lived in Paradise, Obo decided to search for that wonderful place. And that's just what he did when he got big enough to do so. As he searched, he asked each jungle animal he met whether or not it knew where Paradise was... Anderson filled his book with wonderfully detailed drawings of all the plant and animal life Obo encountered in the jungle. The final picture is a gathering of ninety-nine creatures around a watering hole. A poster of that scene is available upon request from the publisher. OBO ends with a glossary describing nearly forty jungle dwellers. Each animal has a small picture, followed by a pronunciation guide to its name. He also includes a brief description of the creature's habits. Young and old alike will enjoy Obo's search for Paradise, and their own search for all the creatures hiding in the jungle. Sandra I. Smith, Reviewer

Obo, the story of a monkey searching for Paradise, manages to take the reader there as well. The author and illustrator, Bob Anderson, has captured a distinct quality of fantasy in his drawings, allowing adults and children alike to immerse themselves in this lush world. The true beauty of this book is in the minute detail and realism found in the pen and ink drawings and in the author's dedication to lush environmental atmosphere. This book is a must-have for families with children of various ages.

I had the rare opportunity of seeing this book in its original manuscript form and although I have not yet seen the final in-print version, I can say that it is a treasure! The illustrations are intricate, mysterious, and sophisticated, and I can only assume that they will be equally appealing to adults as well as children of all ages. The story is timeless with a universal theme which is dealt with on multiple levels in such a way that small children who are being read to will enjoy it while also offering enough interest and humor to encourage young readers and adults to enjoy it as well. The drawings and glossary at the end add a nice extra touch which really pulls the whole work together as an excellent learning tool (again, for both children and adults).

This endangered animal is the star of a wonderful story.

Robby the rhino's identity problem is lots of fun for kids. Also, the art in this book is spectacular. Look for the wonderful pictures of the imaginary nosserus.

The rhinocerus in this story is so delightful. He thinks he'stracking down a dangerous beast. It's really himself. And the art ismagnificent.

Ned Middleton is incorrect to say that the destroyers were reluctant to go along side the Ohio. She was dragged into Valleta harbour with a destroyer lashed to each side.You cannot get any closer than that.

Geographically, Ohio may be a long way from Malta but the two became forever linked through the historical events of WW2. The Ohio was a ship - at that time the largest (and fastest) Tanker ever built, and Malta a country under siege. Malta's position in the Mediterranean meant she played a vital part in the war in North Africa - with aircraft based there attacking Rommel's supply lines at every opportunity. In order to maintain those attacks, however, it was imperative she continued to be re-supplied by convoy.

By August 1942 Malta was in dire need of help. Unless substantial supplies were delivered - and soon!, Malta would have to be surrendered by 7 September at the very latest. In the meantime the German campaign in North Africa was going from strength to strength because aircraft based at Malta had no fuel to continue their campaign. They were also running out of aircraft.

Operation Pedestal comprised 14 commercial ships which departed the Clyde on 2 August 1942. By the time they entered the Mediterranean on 10 September such was the importance of this convoy that no fewer than 4 Aircraft Carriers were assigned to the overall defence. From here on those ships came in for attack after attack from air and sea and they pushed ever closer to their destination. Almost immediately the aircraft carrier HMS Eagle was lost and the next day the 8,000 ton cruisers Kenya and Nigeria were put out of action and the 4,190 ton light cruiser Cairo sunk. It was at this time the Ohio took a direct hit from a torpedo. For a long while she was stopped in the water with her crew making frantic repairs and an easy target. In spite of her extensive damage, however, the ship got under way and was soon making 15 knots. By the morning of the 14th she had caught up. In the meantime, however, the 9,400 ton cruiser HMS Manchester was lost.

The loss of so many capital ships on a single operation only served to underline the importance of this convoy. One at a time the freighters with their valuable cargoes were being reduced in number as they were attacked and lost. From now on the Ohio received greater attention - from both sides. Firstly she had become the primary target for Axis forces and secondly she was regarded as the most important ship still afloat as far as the convoy was concerned. In short, the Ohio must reach Malta at all costs. She was torpedoed, she was shot at, she was bombed with explosives and bombed with fuel in a bid to set her alight. The many near missed she suffered twisted her hull and with her cargo of fuel oil and kerosene leaking in all directions she could have simply blown apart at ant time. She was abandoned and re-boarded (twice), her steering gear was first damaged making steering impossible and then it was blown away altogether. She lost countless tows and was so badly damaged that Destroyers were loath to come alongside less they sustain damage from the ship itself.

But come alongside they did and, re-boarded yet again and - when any lesser ship would have been sunk several times over, the Ohio was finally berthed alongside Parlatorio Wharf, Malta at 0930 hrs 15th August 1942. Only four other ships from the original 14 also arrived. Incredibly, very little of the Ohio's cargo had been lost and as a direct result of this incredible feat of human endurance, the fuel carried by this one ship helped turn the war in North Africa in favour of the Allies.

This book tells the tale of a single ship. In bringing Operation Pedestal to life in a thrilling and readable style, Michael Pearson skilfully draws the reader into the events aboard other ships at key moments in the voyage. He also includes just about each and every many who played a key role at various times. All the facts and figures are there including brief technical details of every ship. For those who wish to study the many pages of bibliography, his account is also exceedingly well researched and I congratulate him on a job well done.

NM

A great true story about the trials and tribulations of a tanker and its crew trying to get their ship to Malta through the gauntlet of German and Italian planes and submarines during ww2.

This a a book that is so reminiscing of Brer Rabbit and Anansi stories. Finally there's a book our children of color can read and learn a lesson from. I had the opportunity to purchase the book in the Gallery in Philly where K. Christopher Toussaint was doing a book signing. I was able to get an autographed copy for my son who was then in the hospital in 2000 and now that he is 3 this is his favorite book and he is always asking questions about the moral. Thank you!!!!

I purchased this book for the beautiful ones that are not yet born.... This fable is so unique and the book is a keepsake. I fell in love with Toussaint's excellent storytelling ability and the simplicity of a childhood lessons learned. Mom always said "don't tease other children". If you didn't believe her, you'll be convinced once you read this book. I can't wait for the series.

After purchasing this book, i sat down to read it with my son. It was educational, fun, stimulating among other things. It got my child asking numerous questions on black History. He enjoyed it enough to want to share it with his friends, and said his school library needs it to. He's taking it to school with him to share with his classmates. This book is a fine example for children of all races.Thank you K. Christopher Toussaint, We will be buying the series.

Mr. Ben-Shahar does a great job at presenting his research and personal experiences in various Southafrican bush areas. In addition to his interesting narratives, Ben-Shahar provides us with the opportunity to enjoy some of his outstanding photographs. A must read if planning a trip to a Southafrican destination.

"On the Trail of the Wild..." captures the essence of a land that is a curiosity to so many and yet known to so few. The author has brought to life some of the more spectacular regions of Southern Africa, with detailed descriptions of the topography, ecology, and it's wildlife inhabitants. From the smallest beetle to the massive elephants, he describes their interactions and the important role each plays in this complex society. And into all this he has woven some incredible personal experiences that the average urban dweller can not begin to imagine.

Rather than painting a glamorous picture of life in the bush, Mr. Ben-Shahar has presented a realistic description of the harsh conditions he experienced and the unpredictability of the wildlife. The fact that he survived an elephant attack, endured the long and painful recovery, and still returned to the bush speaks well for his deep love and respect for this wonderful land.

If you've ever been to Southern Africa or thought about going, this book is definitely one you will enjoy.

One comes across many books on the African wilds both in the coffee table category and the more informative data and detail-type. This book combines the best elements of both, and is one of the most outstanding books I have ever come across on this subject. The photographs are exceptionally good. They are enhanced through the knowledge and sensitivity of the author towards his subject, and this unique combination of understanding and ability provides for a photographic view of the wilds that few photographers, let alone authors, could emulate. The author's experiences and knowledge of both wild creatures and wild places is ably shared with the reader, and together with the magnificent photographs, the reader is able to enjoy the best of the Southern African wilds through the medium of a book - this is a rare achievement!

I bought this book because I wanted to have a look at old Cairo, this part of the city that has been unspoiled by time and, unfortunately, neglected by men. I think the Egyptian Government should do something to restore and exploit these buildings for the sake of Cairo's beauty. The pictures are nice and the texts are mainly for those who have an architectural interest for Cairo's past. I am not an architect, though, and I enjoyed the book - perhaps because I love this city very much.

The beautiful photographs of the belle epoque buildings of Cairo fairly jump off the pages at you. This lovely, understated book should be a guide for architecture and restoration students and buffs. This is a great gift book for the right people.

From the Egyptian Press: "[Myntti's] photographs...overflow with her love of Cairo, so the photos have become more beautiful than professional photos, because it was the heart that recorded not the fixed lens that cannot feel the pulse." (Hussam Abd Rabbu, Akhir Saat.) "The French architecture of the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries makes up one of the most charming of Cairo's harlequin faces.... This era has left a strikingly beautiful imprint on the citscape. Myntti's zoom lens offers a graceful catalogue." (Francis Bickmore, Egypt's Insight.) "In its global significance and cosmopolitan sophistication, Cairo was not merely a copy of Paris, it was more than Paris. The book inivtes one to 'promenade' and also to protect these neglected treasures." (Bruno Ronfard, Al-Ahram Hebdo.)

A wonderful tale of spiritual discovery and rebirth

Baba Akinkugbe Karade is an American of African heritage and wrote this wonderful account of his spiritual pilgrimage and his discovery, embrace and initiation into the great religious tradition of his ancestors, that of the Yoruba people of West Africa known as Ifa, in order to illumine for his readers the truth that Africans both on the continent and throughout the diaspora are heirs to a glorious tradition, one whose origins stretch back into the primoridial mists of antiquity.

The Ifa religion dates back to the time of its prophet Orunmila said to have lived in the Ife region of what is today Nigeria between approximately 2000-4000 BCE. He was said to be born of humble African parents and imbued with supernatural gifts and deep spiritual wisdom. Notwithstanding centuries of oppression at the hands of colonizers Ifa continued to survive, even the unspeakable horrors of enslavement. Wise leaders hid the religion behind a protective camouflage of Christian saints amd symbols, giving birth to the various offshoots of Ifa known as Santeria, Lucumi, Candomble, Vodoun and Rootwork or Hoodoo. The Ifa religion survived, and grows and thrives today

As immeasurably ancient as the tradition is, it possesses a treasure beyond value in its message for contemporary society: one of healing and wholeness after centuries of injustice, denial and marginalization. Through his love of the tradition and his heartfelt enthusiasm for its critical teachings, Baba provides his readers with a solid rationale for its continuance and growth: that the African traditions exist in America as well as Africa, and provide a viable and particularly effective means to answer the call of spirit.

Baba's writing style is deeply personal, and he does not hesitate to put all of his emotional cards on the table: one cannot help but feel what he feels (at times anxious, humbled, empowered and filled with awe) as he makes his journey to the priesthood. As one reads Path to Priesthood one feels as though one were engaged in a heart-to-heart conversation with a trusted guide and teacher.

Of the several works I have read on African spiritual traditions, I would unhesitatingly recommend this be one of the first books read by one who is new to this tradition. Once reading, I could not put it down until I had shared and completed with Baba his soul-stirring journey.

I have read several books related to the Ifa/Yoruba experience and this particular book was very personal. As I read through the book I could not help but connect with the feelings that the author expressed.

I became so engrossed with the book that I could not put it down. It gave me a lot to think about because I could relate to his desires of discovery. What Akinkugbe Karade presents here is a gem for anyone who is curious about how you become involved in the Yoruba tradition.

Only heaven knows the way to Salvation!

Peace and blessings Baba. Inu mi dun!! Your book is an inspiration to all those in the diaspora who wish to come home to tradition and be on the path to knowing self again. It is a deep honour to our ancestors and their ashe which helps keeps Ifa alive. Modupe Egun

To anyone who reads this book. Please note that you do not necessarily need to travel to Africa to be initiated into the tradition, but can do it right here in the USA and in the west.

Modupe Olodumare, Orunmila, Egun and all the empowering Orisha. Ashe, ashe-o ashe.

Kaa ma w'orisha Your loving wife

Iya OluYomi

THIS BOOK WITH ITS COLORFUL ILLUSTRATION AND HISTORICAL STORYLINE MAKES THIS BOOK NOT ONLY FUN TO READ BUT GIVES US AN INSIGHT TO AFRICAN HERITAGE.

PEOPLE OF ALL BACKGOUNDS, CHILDREN AND ADULTS ALIKE WILL FIND THIS AN ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCE TO READ.

I thought this book was wonderful. It presents historical information to children using vivid illustrations and a magical story line. This book should be read by children regardless of race or culture. I enjoyed reading it.

The Path is the story of a young boy who learns the principles of leadership by meeting heroes from African history. The book can be used as vehicle to promote leadership skills, history geography and multicultural education.

Probably, the story of Rwandan genocide is the most shocking international scandal of the post World War II era. The book is a brilliant reconstruction of that time, written with amazing clarity and based on well established facts.
In three months of 1994 about one million people was killed in organised genocide. The killing rate was five times faster than that achieved by the Nazis during WWII holocaust. But on the contrary to the Nazis, the Rwandan genocide happened in the full light of the international media, with the full knowledge of the UN Security Council and the Western governments.
Linda Melvern describes and documents in detail the role of the West in the genocide.
The story is so bad that almost all of the publishers in the UK refused to publish this book with comments like "the story is really too awful" or "I cannot see people forking out money to read about such an unspeakable subject..."

Do you think you can fork out some money for the truth? I think this book is certainly worth any money.

`Quite extraordinary: precise, and yet overwhelming; a fine balance in the face of depravity... Linda Melvern has written an extraordinary account of the Rwanda genocide, and the shocking failure of the West to lift a finger... What Melvern demonstrates so powerfully is that where Western geopolitical interests are absent, Western morality and `civilised' concerns are nowhere to be found ... A brave and compelling book.' - Professor Richard Falk, Center of International Studies, Princeton University

`This is a devastating account of lies, deceit, complacency and tragic neglect.... All we can hope is that this fine book will provide lessons for the future, because it provides all of us who lobby and campaign for early warning systems and conflict prevention with invaluable evidence. Looking around the world, you wonder what has been learnt since 1994. Linda Melvern deserves our thanks for investing so much in breaking the silence and revealing the truth.' - Glenys Kinnock, MEP; Chair, Forum on Early Warning And Early Response (FEWER)

'What happened in Rwanda is one of the most appalling, heartbreaking tragedies that the world has known. Why did it occur? And what more could have been done to prevent it? This serious, very thorough attempt to answer those questions will be essential reading for anyone who wishes to understand what happened. This is a powerful and important book.' - The Right Reverend Richard Harries, Bishop of Oxford

`A riveting and well-researched account of the horrendous crimes committed in Rwanda while an indifferent world, to its shame, looked the other way. There are grim lessons here for everyone, from international statesmen and politicians to responsible citizens and decent human beings everywhere' - Dame Margaret Anstee

'This is a very important book. It is a book that a large number of people should read....what is good about the book is that it shows the big picture. It shows the failure that actually took place. It tells the story of what really happened. An outstandingly good book... ...compelling.....its content is exceptional.' - Colin Keating, Secretary for Justice, New Zealand Ministry of Justice, and former New Zealand Ambassador to the UN

After all the fine words and 'never agains' the truth is out. Genocide will slip right in front of major organs of news and nothing happens to stop it.
This short but detailed account of the Rwanda genocide 1994 is both low-key and shocking and needs examination.