The book review:
This is an unusual book in that it is a collection of extraordinary old photographs that document Kenya’s early years in fascinating detail. A comprehensive and detailed text explains the collection, which displays construction of the railroad, World War I, group photos at important events, scenes of towns and cities that as chronology progresses begin to bear faint resemblance to modern day establishments, life on the farm, game trophies, wild animals, Indian traders, model T’s stuck in the mud, boats, and airplanes.

The book review:
Several books have been written about the tempestuous relationship between Karen Blixen and Denys Finch Hatton, especially Baroness Blixen’s own account in her marvelous memoir, Out of Africa. In her version, Tania (Karen) provides her perspective and romanticizes the relationship of two differing souls who connect in great passion. Author Wheeler is much less ethereal and more practical in arriving at a more realistic appraisal of the relationship. Her assessment tracks a careful evaluation of Denys’ life from childhood, through school and university and then into the wider world beyond.

The book review:
This soap opera tale of adventure, passion, love and ambition is set in colonial Kenya in the immediate post World War I era. Various characters emerging from the trauma of the war, both in East Africa and Europe seek new lives and new beginnings in the promise of Kenya, a territory where His Majesty’s government was actively encouraging European settlement.

The book review:

Kourouma’s satirical novel traces the life story of Koyaga, a master hunter from the mountains of West Africa who by hook, crook, scheming, magic, ruthless violence, and military politics became the dictator of the fictional Republic of the Gulf.

The book review:
Thanks to Alan Johnston who forwarded this little booklet to me for a review.

After the Vote is a series of opinions, recollections and short stories written by Kenyan authors following last year’s contested election and its violent aftermath. The pieces are unsettling and paint a grim picture of Kenya’s tribal animosities and failed politics. Perhaps even more troubling, the items demonstrate Kenya’s intellectuals’ despair.

The book review:

Although presented in novel form, this book carefully recounts the efforts around the turn of the last century of the Zionist movement and the Imperial British government to create a Jewish settlement in what is today Kenya.