Lägg till bokmärkeAfrica: Altered States, Ordinary Miracles
After a lifetime’s close observation of the continent, one of the world’s finest Africa correspondents has penned a landmark book on life and death in modern Africa. In captivating prose, Dowden spins tales of cults and commerce in Senegal and traditional spirituality in Sierra Leone; analyzes the impact of oil and the internet on Nigeria and aid on Sudan; and examines what has gone so badly wrong in Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Congo. From the individual stories of failure and success ... (show more)
After a lifetime’s close observation of the continent, one of the world’s finest Africa correspondents has penned a landmark book on life and death in modern Africa. In captivating prose, Dowden spins tales of cults and commerce in Senegal and traditional spirituality in Sierra Leone; analyzes the impact of oil and the internet on Nigeria and aid on Sudan; and examines what has gone so badly wrong in Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Congo. From the individual stories of failure and success comes a surprising portrait of a new Africa emerging—an Africa that, Dowden argues, can only be developed by its own people. Dowden’s master work is an attempt to explain why Africa is the way it is and calls for a re-examination of the perception of Africa as “the dark continent.” He reveals it as a place of inspiration and tremendous humanity. (show less)
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If you're looking one book on Africa, that gives a great insight to the continent - this is it. Dowden blends history, current affairs, personal stories and a unique commentary based on over 30 years experience. Having visited Rwanda a few times - I share he conclusion on that troubled country ... "Today Rwanda is ruled as tightly as ever. The Tutsis, only 13% of the population, are in power. ... They may use that power to create a 'new Rwanda' where there is no Hutu or Tutsi and harmon... (show more)
If you're looking one book on Africa, that gives a great insight to the continent - this is it. Dowden blends history, current affairs, personal stories and a unique commentary based on over 30 years experience. Having visited Rwanda a few times - I share he conclusion on that troubled country ... "Today Rwanda is ruled as tightly as ever. The Tutsis, only 13% of the population, are in power. ... They may use that power to create a 'new Rwanda' where there is no Hutu or Tutsi and harmony reigns. But in protecting their own existence now, are the present rulers jeopardizing the future, even creating the conditions for another genocide?" I desperately hope he is wrong.
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In-depth and insightful. This is one of the best non-fiction books I have read in a really long time. As somebody who doesn't have a lot of detailed knowledge of African politics I felt that this book provided a solid fondation and definitely inspired me to read more on the subject.
Dowden's love for the African continent shone throughout the book and the overwhelming sentiment was of optimism.
A must-read imho.
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