JOHN LE CARRE

Quite superb…..a masterpiece

WILLIAM BOYD

Tim Butcher's extraordinary, audacious journey through the Congo is worthy of the great 19th century explorers. Completely enthralling but also a thoughtful and sobering portrait of modern Africa

ALEXANDER MCCALL SMITH

A remarkable, fascinating book by a courageous and perceptive writer. One of the most exciting books to emerge from Africa in recent years.

THE SUNDAY TIMES

Tim Butcher's book is the latest in a long line, running through Joseph Conrad, Graham Greene, VS Nai-paul… his account of a hair-rising trip from east to west, against all advice, by motorbike and then river boat, is gripping and harshly informative…

MAX HASTINGS

Blood River represents a remarkable marriage of travelogue and history, which deserves to make Tim Butcher a star for his prose, as well as his courage.

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

From his adventure he has plundered a wealth of terrific stories, and survived to recite a rosary of unstinting horror.

FERGAL KEANE

This is a terrific book, an adventure story about a journey of great bravery in one of the world's most dangerous places. It keeps the heart beating and the attention fixed from beginning to end.

HATCHARDS

…unputdownable…

GILES FODEN

An intrepid adventure... Tim Butcher has followed in the footsteps of Stanley and Conrad. It takes a lot of guts to yomp through the Congo and he obviously has plenty of those. But it is the wit and passion of the writing which keeps you engrossed.

THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

..stirring and thought-provoking.

AESTHETICA MAGAZINE

….a remarkable travelogue of exquisite proportions…. highly emotive, historical and personal…Butcher's elegant style demands the reader's attention…….Blood River is nothing short of a modern-day masterpiece.

WANDERLUST

What makes Blood River such a compelling read is the fact that the journey becomes an exercise in mental terror, the author skilfully conveying the exhaustion of six weeks on tenterhooks, wondering what might happen just around the next bend.

THOMAS PAKENHAM

Tim Butcher deserves a medal for this crazy feat. I marvel at his courage and his empathy with the unfortunate Congolese...

ESQUIRE

…gripping…

TRAVEL AFRICA

The past meets present in this enthralling travelogue through the depths of the Congo.

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Lonely Planet--Egypt takes a practical approach to its readers and audience. It steers away from the hippie flavour of The Rough Guide (where the virtues of sleeping on a friendly native's roof are dwelled on at the expense of more mundane information) and adopts a tone that is sensible and thoughtful, though not timid.

The information is thorough and for the most part accurate. Particularly useful are the suggested highlights for every major city, which, though doomed to meet with dissent, generally provide a good foundation for planning an itinerary. The inclusion of good, colour photographs is also a benefit. There are some notable weaknesses. Maps are disjointed and difficult to relate to each other, and there are vital moments where the guide shies away from making specific recommendations or suggesting priorities. This can make choosing which of Cairo's mosques or Luxor's West Bank tombs to visit a slightly hit-and-miss affair, especially if your time is limited.

An early disclaimer wails (justifiably) that "Things change", and there are already some areas where the information is incorrect. However, if you're a tourist, rather than a traveller, with weeks rather than months to spend in Egypt (and you're ready to view a guide book as a guide, rather than as an authority), then this may well be the single best book with which to plan and enjoy your visit. --Richard Kelly

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Very helpful guide., 09 Nov 2008
I have just returned from Egypt tour. I had this book and it was excellent helpful guide. It helped me a lot especially sights description and necessary up-to-date information.

Very Good Insight For 1st Time Visitors!, 28 Jul 2004
We've just come back from honeymoon and used this book when we visited Cairo and particularly the incredible museum... the descriptions are spot on and the book guides you thru' room by room. Our tour guide was saying practically the same things as the book, so its all you need!

Dress codes for women in Cairo aren't as strict as the book makes it out to be, there were loads of girls with string tops and shorts, so long skirts and long sleeved shirts aren't necessarily a must!! Other than that, pretty accurate about local customs and traditions.

Mixed, 08 Jul 2003
I've been to Egypt 3 times and the last time I spent 4 months there. The general consensus amongst travellers was that the Rough Guide was superior, but that the Lonely Planet has better maps. An additional issue is that since the Lonely Planet is the most popular guidebook, do you really want to be sitting smoking sheesha at a coffee shop filled with other white middle class travellers, all with Lonely Planets on their tables? Cringe!

A great book for pre-travel information, 05 Aug 2001
My copy is already looking a bit "well read" and I have only just bought it. Bursting with information and useful advise, this book is a must for anyone who is planning their own trip to Egypt.

Essential for anyone travelling to Egypt!, 14 Jul 2001
We took this book everywhere! From the suggested sites to visit in each location to the suggestions about how much to pay for a felucca or callesh (and how much baksheesh to give on top of the price), it was informative, accessible and above all accurate.

We took the Rough Guide to Egypt also and that's still in immaculate condition while the Lonely Planet Guide looks like it has been read by every taxi driver in Luxor who's cousin has a felucca!

Definately essential reading!!!

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Very helpful guide., 09 Nov 2008
I have just returned from Egypt tour. I had this book and it was excellent helpful guide. It helped me a lot especially sights description and necessary up-to-date information.

Very Good Insight For 1st Time Visitors!, 28 Jul 2004
We've just come back from honeymoon and used this book when we visited Cairo and particularly the incredible museum... the descriptions are spot on and the book guides you thru' room by room. Our tour guide was saying practically the same things as the book, so its all you need!

Dress codes for women in Cairo aren't as strict as the book makes it out to be, there were loads of girls with string tops and shorts, so long skirts and long sleeved shirts aren't necessarily a must!! Other than that, pretty accurate about local customs and traditions.

Mixed, 08 Jul 2003
I've been to Egypt 3 times and the last time I spent 4 months there. The general consensus amongst travellers was that the Rough Guide was superior, but that the Lonely Planet has better maps. An additional issue is that since the Lonely Planet is the most popular guidebook, do you really want to be sitting smoking sheesha at a coffee shop filled with other white middle class travellers, all with Lonely Planets on their tables? Cringe!

A great book for pre-travel information, 05 Aug 2001
My copy is already looking a bit "well read" and I have only just bought it. Bursting with information and useful advise, this book is a must for anyone who is planning their own trip to Egypt.

Essential for anyone travelling to Egypt!, 14 Jul 2001
We took this book everywhere! From the suggested sites to visit in each location to the suggestions about how much to pay for a felucca or callesh (and how much baksheesh to give on top of the price), it was informative, accessible and above all accurate.

We took the Rough Guide to Egypt also and that's still in immaculate condition while the Lonely Planet Guide looks like it has been read by every taxi driver in Luxor who's cousin has a felucca!

Definately essential reading!!!

Short and sweet, fund raiser!, 05 Sep 2008
The phrase short and sweet popped into my mind about this 49 page little book about Bill Bryson's 8 days in Kenya. It is actually a bitter sweet account about the work of the charity organization CARE one of the worlds leading international organizations fighting against poverty. They believe that by working to find the source of a communities problems and solving it they can help make the world a safer and more stable place for us all.
Unfortunately the book is a very superficial glance into the problems that are facing Kenya poverty, war, disease and corruption. However it did its job reminding me that we should be grateful for the small things in life and appreciate the fact that there are millions of people in Africa lacking even the basics for survival.



A Brilliant Entry for a Great Cause, 19 Aug 2008
Bill Bryson is the funniest travel writer working today, I believe, and even when he takes on what is an unpleasant task - visiting one of the most depressed areas of the world in order to raise funds for CARE, he does it in a hilarious way.

In this short little book, Bryson not only shares with us his (by turns) funny and heartbreaking journey, we also get to meet some amazing people. The lady who works twelve-hour days in order to get a profit of some $7 or $8 - the farmer who has made a fantastic farm and is very proud of it - the villagers who come out to welcome the visitors with open arms because of a well that was built, eliminating the need for the women of the village to make a seven-hour roundtrip journey to the nearest water source. This is what it's all about - this is the magical work that CARE does with the funds that are donated.

Bryson is his usual, witty self, freely confessing that the homework he did in preparing for his trip was watching Out of Africa numerous times, and he thought that he was going to be on an estate being served coffee for most of the trip. The reality was somewhat different, but still far afield from what he expected. That I not only laughed out loud but insisted on reading choice bits aloud to my husband is a testament to the talent and humor that Bryson brings to everything he does.

It's a charity book, people..., 05 Dec 2007
This was never intended to be a regular Bill Bryson book. He was invited to take a short trip to Africa, on a timetable set by his charitable guests, and to produce an equally short volume to raise funds for the charity. This he did, taking no royalties for himself. To complain about the length or to compare it to his other travelogues completely misses the point. Yes it's short, but bear in mind that for a hardcover it's pretty cheap.

As it happens, the standard of writing is as high as ever - laugh-out-loud anecdotes mixed with thought-provoking and fascinating insights into the lives of the people helped by the charity. It's well worth buying for that alone, regardless of the fact that for once your money will be doing some good rather than lining a publisher's pockets.

Not a 'proper' Bryson book, but entertaining......, 07 Aug 2007
I would urge everybody to read at least one Bill Bryson book in their lifetime. He is a most entertaining and intelligent writer, the kind who you would feel no qualms having a few drinks and a conversation with; he is that concilliatory with his readers.
This slim volume of sixty pages, however, was only intended to draw attention to the work of CARE and, despite the title, takes place in only one country (Kenya) of the massive African continent. Whereas I understand and appreciate the concern of the author and the charity, it is not a patch on the richly deep and hilarious 'proper' Bryson travel books such as Notes From A Small Island or A Walk In The Woods. Very much a completists buy.

Incredibly funny for such a short book, 23 Sep 2004
I was amazed by the quality of this work - initially disappointed by its size, I read it nevertheless and was soon in fits of laughter. It is unbelievable how an author manages to pack such a dense number of insights into such a compact work. A thoroughly good read - highly recommended.

Polish writer and foreign correspondent Ryszard Kapuscinski may be in the twilight of a golden career spanning more than 40 years but The Shadow of the Sun, an alternative record of his experiences of Africa and its stupefying white heat, is perhaps his finest hour. This for a writer who, to echo the sentiments of Michael Ignatieff, has turned reportage into literature. Drawn to the Developing World through an impoverished wartime upbringing, Kapuscinski arrived in Ghana in 1957 and was on hand to witness the tumultuous years in which colonial Africa was dismantled, resulting in born-again countries ripe for ransacking by despots. From the glare of Accra airport which greets him on first arrival, to the Tanzanian night of the final pages, he crosses savannah, desert and city by foot, road and train, searching out the two most important, yet inconstant commodities on the continent: shade and water. Threatened by an Egyptian cobra, cursed with cerebral malaria and tuberculosis, plagued by black cockroaches the size of small turtles, Kapuscinski intermingles the immediate and the reflective in 29 satisfyingly fragmented vignettes, encompassing historical narratives and personal experience across a host of countries, including Ethiopia, Uganda, Nigeria, Sudan and Liberia.

While acknowledging European colonial culpability, he refuses to rinse his words in guilt. The Shadow of the Sun is reminiscent of Gianni Celati's Adventures in Africa, employing similarly symphonic atmospherics that can bear poetic witness to both the tragic history of Rwanda and the Ngubi beetle, which toils in the desert to produce the sweat it drinks to survive. As much about the plastic water container as the warlord and preferring the African shanty town to the Manhattan skyscraper as a monument to human achievement, what Kapuscinski, the author of Shah of Shahs describes is not Africa, which he claims does not exist except geographically but a distillation of life itself, through its religiosity, its trees, the frightening abundance of youth, sun that "curdles the blood" and terrorising, ruling armies that fall in a day. The first in a projected trilogy pulling together Africa, Central America and Asia, The Shadow of the Sun is an exceptional and humbling work of imagination and experience by a writer intent on liberating truths from fact. --David Vincent

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Very helpful guide., 09 Nov 2008
I have just returned from Egypt tour. I had this book and it was excellent helpful guide. It helped me a lot especially sights description and necessary up-to-date information.

Very Good Insight For 1st Time Visitors!, 28 Jul 2004
We've just come back from honeymoon and used this book when we visited Cairo and particularly the incredible museum... the descriptions are spot on and the book guides you thru' room by room. Our tour guide was saying practically the same things as the book, so its all you need!

Dress codes for women in Cairo aren't as strict as the book makes it out to be, there were loads of girls with string tops and shorts, so long skirts and long sleeved shirts aren't necessarily a must!! Other than that, pretty accurate about local customs and traditions.

Mixed, 08 Jul 2003
I've been to Egypt 3 times and the last time I spent 4 months there. The general consensus amongst travellers was that the Rough Guide was superior, but that the Lonely Planet has better maps. An additional issue is that since the Lonely Planet is the most popular guidebook, do you really want to be sitting smoking sheesha at a coffee shop filled with other white middle class travellers, all with Lonely Planets on their tables? Cringe!

A great book for pre-travel information, 05 Aug 2001
My copy is already looking a bit "well read" and I have only just bought it. Bursting with information and useful advise, this book is a must for anyone who is planning their own trip to Egypt.

Essential for anyone travelling to Egypt!, 14 Jul 2001
We took this book everywhere! From the suggested sites to visit in each location to the suggestions about how much to pay for a felucca or callesh (and how much baksheesh to give on top of the price), it was informative, accessible and above all accurate.

We took the Rough Guide to Egypt also and that's still in immaculate condition while the Lonely Planet Guide looks like it has been read by every taxi driver in Luxor who's cousin has a felucca!

Definately essential reading!!!

Short and sweet, fund raiser!, 05 Sep 2008
The phrase short and sweet popped into my mind about this 49 page little book about Bill Bryson's 8 days in Kenya. It is actually a bitter sweet account about the work of the charity organization CARE one of the worlds leading international organizations fighting against poverty. They believe that by working to find the source of a communities problems and solving it they can help make the world a safer and more stable place for us all.
Unfortunately the book is a very superficial glance into the problems that are facing Kenya poverty, war, disease and corruption. However it did its job reminding me that we should be grateful for the small things in life and appreciate the fact that there are millions of people in Africa lacking even the basics for survival.



A Brilliant Entry for a Great Cause, 19 Aug 2008
Bill Bryson is the funniest travel writer working today, I believe, and even when he takes on what is an unpleasant task - visiting one of the most depressed areas of the world in order to raise funds for CARE, he does it in a hilarious way.

In this short little book, Bryson not only shares with us his (by turns) funny and heartbreaking journey, we also get to meet some amazing people. The lady who works twelve-hour days in order to get a profit of some $7 or $8 - the farmer who has made a fantastic farm and is very proud of it - the villagers who come out to welcome the visitors with open arms because of a well that was built, eliminating the need for the women of the village to make a seven-hour roundtrip journey to the nearest water source. This is what it's all about - this is the magical work that CARE does with the funds that are donated.

Bryson is his usual, witty self, freely confessing that the homework he did in preparing for his trip was watching Out of Africa numerous times, and he thought that he was going to be on an estate being served coffee for most of the trip. The reality was somewhat different, but still far afield from what he expected. That I not only laughed out loud but insisted on reading choice bits aloud to my husband is a testament to the talent and humor that Bryson brings to everything he does.

It's a charity book, people..., 05 Dec 2007
This was never intended to be a regular Bill Bryson book. He was invited to take a short trip to Africa, on a timetable set by his charitable guests, and to produce an equally short volume to raise funds for the charity. This he did, taking no royalties for himself. To complain about the length or to compare it to his other travelogues completely misses the point. Yes it's short, but bear in mind that for a hardcover it's pretty cheap.

As it happens, the standard of writing is as high as ever - laugh-out-loud anecdotes mixed with thought-provoking and fascinating insights into the lives of the people helped by the charity. It's well worth buying for that alone, regardless of the fact that for once your money will be doing some good rather than lining a publisher's pockets.

Not a 'proper' Bryson book, but entertaining......, 07 Aug 2007
I would urge everybody to read at least one Bill Bryson book in their lifetime. He is a most entertaining and intelligent writer, the kind who you would feel no qualms having a few drinks and a conversation with; he is that concilliatory with his readers.
This slim volume of sixty pages, however, was only intended to draw attention to the work of CARE and, despite the title, takes place in only one country (Kenya) of the massive African continent. Whereas I understand and appreciate the concern of the author and the charity, it is not a patch on the richly deep and hilarious 'proper' Bryson travel books such as Notes From A Small Island or A Walk In The Woods. Very much a completists buy.

Incredibly funny for such a short book, 23 Sep 2004
I was amazed by the quality of this work - initially disappointed by its size, I read it nevertheless and was soon in fits of laughter. It is unbelievable how an author manages to pack such a dense number of insights into such a compact work. A thoroughly good read - highly recommended.

Beautiful attempt to describe and understand Africa, 19 Oct 2008
It was the colourful front cover showing a map of Africa that made me pick up this book in the store.

Ryszard Kapuscinski was a polish journalist who spent long periods of time travelling in Africa, reporting for his paper. This book contains articles from the late 1950's until the 1990's.

He writes about sub-saharan Africa: The lands in the west, the centre and the east of the continent. North Africa and southern Africa are not covered.

He writes about the African concept of time. He writes about their spiritual world. He describes the way they greet each other and about their laughter. He describes how thieves could be deterred by a few feathers strategically arranged above the door. He writes about ancient feuds and modern power struggles. He describes the landscape, the heat, the plants and the animals. Yes he does write about the horrors. He does writes about Idi Amin, Rwanda, Liberia, slavery, extreme poverty and disease. But he describes what underpinned those wars, coups and dictatorships in such a way that although they are no less horrible, one can understand them a little better.

I got the impression that this man really sought to understand. He talked to the ordinary people. He lived and traveled with them.

And although he says: "European languages did not develop vocabularies adequate to describe non-European worlds. Entire areas of African life remained unfathomed, untouched even, because of a certain European linguistic poverty." I found the language in this book beautiful and hard to believe that I was reading a translation.

I can recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in understanding Africa. In my opinion this is a relatively objective report an that vast continent. In the author's own words: "The continent is too large to describe. It is a veritable ocean, a separate planet a varied, immensely rich cosmos."

If you enjoyed this book you might alo find Out of America: a Black Man Confronts Africa (Harvest Book) interesting. It contains the views of a black american journalist.

awesome, 25 Jul 2008
Read this in Siberia recently. Awesome. K's descriptions of Africa went oddly well with snow and ice...

Vivid sketches of African life, 22 Jul 2008
Few people were better qualified to relate an outsider's understanding of the essence of Africa than Kapuscinski, a journalist who spent four decades covering assignments in the continent that he loved. The Shadow of the Sun represents a compilation of vignettes that either detail critical moments in African history - the rise and reign of dictators, numerous coups d'etat that befell them, genocides - or gently demonstrate how an African's mentality is not as rigid as our own: how time to him is a much looser concept, how he prefers community over individual, how he has different notions of culpability and cause and effect. That may sound crassly generalist but as narrated by Kapuscinski is not so: part of the book's resonance comes from its unifying themes, the ironic recognition that Africans, so often divided by tribalist politics, are a coherent people.

Yet although these universal themes appear, the scenes Kapusckinski draws simultaneously recognise the great variety of Africa; as he says in the foreword, "only with the greatest simplification, for the sake of convenience, can we say `Africa'". So we witness the midnight rituals of the paranoid Amba, who believe that witches live among them; the unattached, nomadic lives of Tuareg and Somali pastoralists; doomsaying sermons in evangelical sects in Nigeria; the obscene wealth of dictators and corrupt politicians. He relates each sketch through characters and communities, rather than wildlife, or landscapes, or metaphors of suffering, and this makes his tales richer: we see and hear Africa through Africans' voices and experience.

When I'd finished reading this book I was reminded that Africa is an incredibly demanding country, and that much there seems designed to wear a traveller down: public transport that only leaves when it is full to bursting; irrepressible heat; disease; con men or beggars at every corner; grinding bureaucracy; an unwillingness to repair what's broken. But at the same time I felt that I'd been naive to get annoyed by all these things. Everyday people were suffering much more than I was, yet while I was cursing, smiling faces greeted me everywhere. As Kapusckinski puts it: "their life is endless toil, a torment they endure with astonishing patience and good humour." His message is: get out there, meet and talk to Africans, understand how they see you, do your best to understand what life is like for them. It's a hugely important principle, and I'll have this book with me next time I'm there.

Ali Mazrui, 08 Jan 2008
i absolutely loved the book. though there was one hitch:

in the book, Ryzard refers to the intellectual 'Ali Mazrui' as 'Ugandan'. He is not Ugandan. He is Kenyan. To be specific from the Coastal Province of Kenya. I say this because:
1. i'm kenyan
2. i'm from the coast of kenya
... and more importantly
3. i am a distant relative of Ali Mazrui.

If the error can be corrected it would be great!

An Exerllent resource, 08 Dec 2007
Once in a while you come across a book both entertaining and loaded with useful information. Shadow of the Sun is one them - I found the author's interspersing of narrative with historical commentary very useful in understanding the present circumstances of many of the places he visited - it puts everything into context. The author has done an excellent and accessible account of his African experiences.

Africa is a big and complex continent as the author even admits and warns of failure at any generalization attempts. He however falls into this trap in some instances. I found some of his attempts at accounting the 'metaphysical African' completely unrecognizable as an African. For example in one of the chapters, he found himself in a Nigerian church in the Delta and goes on to explore African religions. He concludes that they incompatible with Christianity. He observed that Africans do not feel guilt and that to them, as long as a crime or an evil deed is undiscovered, it remains an innocent/normal action. I found that to be completely untrue. How else can one explain the forgiveness of bad thoughts in the practice of the traditional African religions I am aware, that includes am sure, the area of Nigeria he found himself. There are a few similar instances in the book, but overall, this author has an extraordinary interaction with Africans in a way most Europeans don't. He is an excellent observer and very detail in his accounts.

This is a great read and I am looking forward to reading more of his books

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Very helpful guide., 09 Nov 2008
I have just returned from Egypt tour. I had this book and it was excellent helpful guide. It helped me a lot especially sights description and necessary up-to-date information.

Very Good Insight For 1st Time Visitors!, 28 Jul 2004
We've just come back from honeymoon and used this book when we visited Cairo and particularly the incredible museum... the descriptions are spot on and the book guides you thru' room by room. Our tour guide was saying practically the same things as the book, so its all you need!

Dress codes for women in Cairo aren't as strict as the book makes it out to be, there were loads of girls with string tops and shorts, so long skirts and long sleeved shirts aren't necessarily a must!! Other than that, pretty accurate about local customs and traditions.

Mixed, 08 Jul 2003
I've been to Egypt 3 times and the last time I spent 4 months there. The general consensus amongst travellers was that the Rough Guide was superior, but that the Lonely Planet has better maps. An additional issue is that since the Lonely Planet is the most popular guidebook, do you really want to be sitting smoking sheesha at a coffee shop filled with other white middle class travellers, all with Lonely Planets on their tables? Cringe!

A great book for pre-travel information, 05 Aug 2001
My copy is already looking a bit "well read" and I have only just bought it. Bursting with information and useful advise, this book is a must for anyone who is planning their own trip to Egypt.

Essential for anyone travelling to Egypt!, 14 Jul 2001
We took this book everywhere! From the suggested sites to visit in each location to the suggestions about how much to pay for a felucca or callesh (and how much baksheesh to give on top of the price), it was informative, accessible and above all accurate.

We took the Rough Guide to Egypt also and that's still in immaculate condition while the Lonely Planet Guide looks like it has been read by every taxi driver in Luxor who's cousin has a felucca!

Definately essential reading!!!

Short and sweet, fund raiser!, 05 Sep 2008
The phrase short and sweet popped into my mind about this 49 page little book about Bill Bryson's 8 days in Kenya. It is actually a bitter sweet account about the work of the charity organization CARE one of the worlds leading international organizations fighting against poverty. They believe that by working to find the source of a communities problems and solving it they can help make the world a safer and more stable place for us all.
Unfortunately the book is a very superficial glance into the problems that are facing Kenya poverty, war, disease and corruption. However it did its job reminding me that we should be grateful for the small things in life and appreciate the fact that there are millions of people in Africa lacking even the basics for survival.



A Brilliant Entry for a Great Cause, 19 Aug 2008
Bill Bryson is the funniest travel writer working today, I believe, and even when he takes on what is an unpleasant task - visiting one of the most depressed areas of the world in order to raise funds for CARE, he does it in a hilarious way.

In this short little book, Bryson not only shares with us his (by turns) funny and heartbreaking journey, we also get to meet some amazing people. The lady who works twelve-hour days in order to get a profit of some $7 or $8 - the farmer who has made a fantastic farm and is very proud of it - the villagers who come out to welcome the visitors with open arms because of a well that was built, eliminating the need for the women of the village to make a seven-hour roundtrip journey to the nearest water source. This is what it's all about - this is the magical work that CARE does with the funds that are donated.

Bryson is his usual, witty self, freely confessing that the homework he did in preparing for his trip was watching Out of Africa numerous times, and he thought that he was going to be on an estate being served coffee for most of the trip. The reality was somewhat different, but still far afield from what he expected. That I not only laughed out loud but insisted on reading choice bits aloud to my husband is a testament to the talent and humor that Bryson brings to everything he does.

It's a charity book, people..., 05 Dec 2007
This was never intended to be a regular Bill Bryson book. He was invited to take a short trip to Africa, on a timetable set by his charitable guests, and to produce an equally short volume to raise funds for the charity. This he did, taking no royalties for himself. To complain about the length or to compare it to his other travelogues completely misses the point. Yes it's short, but bear in mind that for a hardcover it's pretty cheap.

As it happens, the standard of writing is as high as ever - laugh-out-loud anecdotes mixed with thought-provoking and fascinating insights into the lives of the people helped by the charity. It's well worth buying for that alone, regardless of the fact that for once your money will be doing some good rather than lining a publisher's pockets.

Not a 'proper' Bryson book, but entertaining......, 07 Aug 2007
I would urge everybody to read at least one Bill Bryson book in their lifetime. He is a most entertaining and intelligent writer, the kind who you would feel no qualms having a few drinks and a conversation with; he is that concilliatory with his readers.
This slim volume of sixty pages, however, was only intended to draw attention to the work of CARE and, despite the title, takes place in only one country (Kenya) of the massive African continent. Whereas I understand and appreciate the concern of the author and the charity, it is not a patch on the richly deep and hilarious 'proper' Bryson travel books such as Notes From A Small Island or A Walk In The Woods. Very much a completists buy.

Incredibly funny for such a short book, 23 Sep 2004
I was amazed by the quality of this work - initially disappointed by its size, I read it nevertheless and was soon in fits of laughter. It is unbelievable how an author manages to pack such a dense number of insights into such a compact work. A thoroughly good read - highly recommended.

Beautiful attempt to describe and understand Africa, 19 Oct 2008
It was the colourful front cover showing a map of Africa that made me pick up this book in the store.

Ryszard Kapuscinski was a polish journalist who spent long periods of time travelling in Africa, reporting for his paper. This book contains articles from the late 1950's until the 1990's.

He writes about sub-saharan Africa: The lands in the west, the centre and the east of the continent. North Africa and southern Africa are not covered.

He writes about the African concept of time. He writes about their spiritual world. He describes the way they greet each other and about their laughter. He describes how thieves could be deterred by a few feathers strategically arranged above the door. He writes about ancient feuds and modern power struggles. He describes the landscape, the heat, the plants and the animals. Yes he does write about the horrors. He does writes about Idi Amin, Rwanda, Liberia, slavery, extreme poverty and disease. But he describes what underpinned those wars, coups and dictatorships in such a way that although they are no less horrible, one can understand them a little better.

I got the impression that this man really sought to understand. He talked to the ordinary people. He lived and traveled with them.

And although he says: "European languages did not develop vocabularies adequate to describe non-European worlds. Entire areas of African life remained unfathomed, untouched even, because of a certain European linguistic poverty." I found the language in this book beautiful and hard to believe that I was reading a translation.

I can recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in understanding Africa. In my opinion this is a relatively objective report an that vast continent. In the author's own words: "The continent is too large to describe. It is a veritable ocean, a separate planet a varied, immensely rich cosmos."

If you enjoyed this book you might alo find Out of America: a Black Man Confronts Africa (Harvest Book) interesting. It contains the views of a black american journalist.

awesome, 25 Jul 2008
Read this in Siberia recently. Awesome. K's descriptions of Africa went oddly well with snow and ice...

Vivid sketches of African life, 22 Jul 2008
Few people were better qualified to relate an outsider's understanding of the essence of Africa than Kapuscinski, a journalist who spent four decades covering assignments in the continent that he loved. The Shadow of the Sun represents a compilation of vignettes that either detail critical moments in African history - the rise and reign of dictators, numerous coups d'etat that befell them, genocides - or gently demonstrate how an African's mentality is not as rigid as our own: how time to him is a much looser concept, how he prefers community over individual, how he has different notions of culpability and cause and effect. That may sound crassly generalist but as narrated by Kapuscinski is not so: part of the book's resonance comes from its unifying themes, the ironic recognition that Africans, so often divided by tribalist politics, are a coherent people.

Yet although these universal themes appear, the scenes Kapusckinski draws simultaneously recognise the great variety of Africa; as he says in the foreword, "only with the greatest simplification, for the sake of convenience, can we say `Africa'". So we witness the midnight rituals of the paranoid Amba, who believe that witches live among them; the unattached, nomadic lives of Tuareg and Somali pastoralists; doomsaying sermons in evangelical sects in Nigeria; the obscene wealth of dictators and corrupt politicians. He relates each sketch through characters and communities, rather than wildlife, or landscapes, or metaphors of suffering, and this makes his tales richer: we see and hear Africa through Africans' voices and experience.

When I'd finished reading this book I was reminded that Africa is an incredibly demanding country, and that much there seems designed to wear a traveller down: public transport that only leaves when it is full to bursting; irrepressible heat; disease; con men or beggars at every corner; grinding bureaucracy; an unwillingness to repair what's broken. But at the same time I felt that I'd been naive to get annoyed by all these things. Everyday people were suffering much more than I was, yet while I was cursing, smiling faces greeted me everywhere. As Kapusckinski puts it: "their life is endless toil, a torment they endure with astonishing patience and good humour." His message is: get out there, meet and talk to Africans, understand how they see you, do your best to understand what life is like for them. It's a hugely important principle, and I'll have this book with me next time I'm there.

Ali Mazrui, 08 Jan 2008
i absolutely loved the book. though there was one hitch:

in the book, Ryzard refers to the intellectual 'Ali Mazrui' as 'Ugandan'. He is not Ugandan. He is Kenyan. To be specific from the Coastal Province of Kenya. I say this because:
1. i'm kenyan
2. i'm from the coast of kenya
... and more importantly
3. i am a distant relative of Ali Mazrui.

If the error can be corrected it would be great!

An Exerllent resource, 08 Dec 2007
Once in a while you come across a book both entertaining and loaded with useful information. Shadow of the Sun is one them - I found the author's interspersing of narrative with historical commentary very useful in understanding the present circumstances of many of the places he visited - it puts everything into context. The author has done an excellent and accessible account of his African experiences.

Africa is a big and complex continent as the author even admits and warns of failure at any generalization attempts. He however falls into this trap in some instances. I found some of his attempts at accounting the 'metaphysical African' completely unrecognizable as an African. For example in one of the chapters, he found himself in a Nigerian church in the Delta and goes on to explore African religions. He concludes that they incompatible with Christianity. He observed that Africans do not feel guilt and that to them, as long as a crime or an evil deed is undiscovered, it remains an innocent/normal action. I found that to be completely untrue. How else can one explain the forgiveness of bad thoughts in the practice of the traditional African religions I am aware, that includes am sure, the area of Nigeria he found himself. There are a few similar instances in the book, but overall, this author has an extraordinary interaction with Africans in a way most Europeans don't. He is an excellent observer and very detail in his accounts.

This is a great read and I am looking forward to reading more of his books


An Adventure Everyone can Enjoy, 03 May 2008
I don't know anything about motercycles, and could not put this book down! Even though I havn't seen the show I really felt like I was there for the whole journey. Charley does an excellent job of recording his reactions, even when they are all over the place. I really apreciate the honesty he put into the book. The inclusion of so many other Dakar stories really rounds it out, creating a true picture of the race, not just a celebrity's attempt, and would be an exciting, inspiring read no matter who wrote it.

Dull, 09 Feb 2008
I love books on travel and I ride a motorcycle, but I really had to force myself to finish this book. I got the impression it was rushed and really done as the end of the motorcycle business Boorman et al have become.
Dull in the extreme.

A great look at what the bikes are all about, 18 Jan 2008
I have read almost all other books relating to the Rally, yet I found this one great insight into what modifications are made to the vehicles and what kit is used in the great race across the desert. The first few chapters are jam packed and mechanics dream of info relating to the vehicles. the rest of the book is also great, as it's simple to read and gives a nice step by step account of the teams progress along with a few humorous stories they heard along the way. I couldnt put the book down and wished it had been a bigger book!

Really good but somewhat disappointing, 05 Dec 2007
If you like bike movies, i.e. "Any Given Sunday," this one fits the bill. It's a great motorcycle movie, and a great story, much recommended. Charley Boorman and his team are great. My only problem with the movie was that, unfortunately, Charley could have been a bit better of a rider and whined less. The movie shows a view that a rider who has no delicate touch on the handlebars may not succeed in the Dakar race. Further, it would have been great to really know who won the race that year, beyond the small mention we see; like a bit more footage of the guys who actually won would have been welcome. Also, they could have shown a bit more of how hard Matt tried to get out of where he was stuck--I would have probably torn up some grass or put my jacket under the wheels of the bike to get it out of the sand, but what do I know?

Awesome!, 21 May 2007
It's mindbending, bicep busting, heart pounding, brain breakingly good!
The way Charlie has written the book takes you through every emotion he and the crew experience as if you were there yourself, the high's, the low's, the determination, the exhaustion, everythings there.
It's an amazing book written by incredible people about an awe inspiring event.
Read this book because, it is that good!

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Very helpful guide., 09 Nov 2008
I have just returned from Egypt tour. I had this book and it was excellent helpful guide. It helped me a lot especially sights description and necessary up-to-date information.

Very Good Insight For 1st Time Visitors!, 28 Jul 2004
We've just come back from honeymoon and used this book when we visited Cairo and particularly the incredible museum... the descriptions are spot on and the book guides you thru' room by room. Our tour guide was saying practically the same things as the book, so its all you need!

Dress codes for women in Cairo aren't as strict as the book makes it out to be, there were loads of girls with string tops and shorts, so long skirts and long sleeved shirts aren't necessarily a must!! Other than that, pretty accurate about local customs and traditions.

Mixed, 08 Jul 2003
I've been to Egypt 3 times and the last time I spent 4 months there. The general consensus amongst travellers was that the Rough Guide was superior, but that the Lonely Planet has better maps. An additional issue is that since the Lonely Planet is the most popular guidebook, do you really want to be sitting smoking sheesha at a coffee shop filled with other white middle class travellers, all with Lonely Planets on their tables? Cringe!

A great book for pre-travel information, 05 Aug 2001
My copy is already looking a bit "well read" and I have only just bought it. Bursting with information and useful advise, this book is a must for anyone who is planning their own trip to Egypt.

Essential for anyone travelling to Egypt!, 14 Jul 2001
We took this book everywhere! From the suggested sites to visit in each location to the suggestions about how much to pay for a felucca or callesh (and how much baksheesh to give on top of the price), it was informative, accessible and above all accurate.

We took the Rough Guide to Egypt also and that's still in immaculate condition while the Lonely Planet Guide looks like it has been read by every taxi driver in Luxor who's cousin has a felucca!

Definately essential reading!!!

Short and sweet, fund raiser!, 05 Sep 2008
The phrase short and sweet popped into my mind about this 49 page little book about Bill Bryson's 8 days in Kenya. It is actually a bitter sweet account about the work of the charity organization CARE one of the worlds leading international organizations fighting against poverty. They believe that by working to find the source of a communities problems and solving it they can help make the world a safer and more stable place for us all.
Unfortunately the book is a very superficial glance into the problems that are facing Kenya poverty, war, disease and corruption. However it did its job reminding me that we should be grateful for the small things in life and appreciate the fact that there are millions of people in Africa lacking even the basics for survival.



A Brilliant Entry for a Great Cause, 19 Aug 2008
Bill Bryson is the funniest travel writer working today, I believe, and even when he takes on what is an unpleasant task - visiting one of the most depressed areas of the world in order to raise funds for CARE, he does it in a hilarious way.

In this short little book, Bryson not only shares with us his (by turns) funny and heartbreaking journey, we also get to meet some amazing people. The lady who works twelve-hour days in order to get a profit of some $7 or $8 - the farmer who has made a fantastic farm and is very proud of it - the villagers who come out to welcome the visitors with open arms because of a well that was built, eliminating the need for the women of the village to make a seven-hour roundtrip journey to the nearest water source. This is what it's all about - this is the magical work that CARE does with the funds that are donated.

Bryson is his usual, witty self, freely confessing that the homework he did in preparing for his trip was watching Out of Africa numerous times, and he thought that he was going to be on an estate being served coffee for most of the trip. The reality was somewhat different, but still far afield from what he expected. That I not only laughed out loud but insisted on reading choice bits aloud to my husband is a testament to the talent and humor that Bryson brings to everything he does.

It's a charity book, people..., 05 Dec 2007
This was never intended to be a regular Bill Bryson book. He was invited to take a short trip to Africa, on a timetable set by his charitable guests, and to produce an equally short volume to raise funds for the charity. This he did, taking no royalties for himself. To complain about the length or to compare it to his other travelogues completely misses the point. Yes it's short, but bear in mind that for a hardcover it's pretty cheap.

As it happens, the standard of writing is as high as ever - laugh-out-loud anecdotes mixed with thought-provoking and fascinating insights into the lives of the people helped by the charity. It's well worth buying for that alone, regardless of the fact that for once your money will be doing some good rather than lining a publisher's pockets.

Not a 'proper' Bryson book, but entertaining......, 07 Aug 2007
I would urge everybody to read at least one Bill Bryson book in their lifetime. He is a most entertaining and intelligent writer, the kind who you would feel no qualms having a few drinks and a conversation with; he is that concilliatory with his readers.
This slim volume of sixty pages, however, was only intended to draw attention to the work of CARE and, despite the title, takes place in only one country (Kenya) of the massive African continent. Whereas I understand and appreciate the concern of the author and the charity, it is not a patch on the richly deep and hilarious 'proper' Bryson travel books such as Notes From A Small Island or A Walk In The Woods. Very much a completists buy.

Incredibly funny for such a short book, 23 Sep 2004
I was amazed by the quality of this work - initially disappointed by its size, I read it nevertheless and was soon in fits of laughter. It is unbelievable how an author manages to pack such a dense number of insights into such a compact work. A thoroughly good read - highly recommended.

Beautiful attempt to describe and understand Africa, 19 Oct 2008
It was the colourful front cover showing a map of Africa that made me pick up this book in the store.

Ryszard Kapuscinski was a polish journalist who spent long periods of time travelling in Africa, reporting for his paper. This book contains articles from the late 1950's until the 1990's.

He writes about sub-saharan Africa: The lands in the west, the centre and the east of the continent. North Africa and southern Africa are not covered.

He writes about the African concept of time. He writes about their spiritual world. He describes the way they greet each other and about their laughter. He describes how thieves could be deterred by a few feathers strategically arranged above the door. He writes about ancient feuds and modern power struggles. He describes the landscape, the heat, the plants and the animals. Yes he does write about the horrors. He does writes about Idi Amin, Rwanda, Liberia, slavery, extreme poverty and disease. But he describes what underpinned those wars, coups and dictatorships in such a way that although they are no less horrible, one can understand them a little better.

I got the impression that this man really sought to understand. He talked to the ordinary people. He lived and traveled with them.

And although he says: "European languages did not develop vocabularies adequate to describe non-European worlds. Entire areas of African life remained unfathomed, untouched even, because of a certain European linguistic poverty." I found the language in this book beautiful and hard to believe that I was reading a translation.

I can recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in understanding Africa. In my opinion this is a relatively objective report an that vast continent. In the author's own words: "The continent is too large to describe. It is a veritable ocean, a separate planet a varied, immensely rich cosmos."

If you enjoyed this book you might alo find Out of America: a Black Man Confronts Africa (Harvest Book) interesting. It contains the views of a black american journalist.

awesome, 25 Jul 2008
Read this in Siberia recently. Awesome. K's descriptions of Africa went oddly well with snow and ice...

Vivid sketches of African life, 22 Jul 2008
Few people were better qualified to relate an outsider's understanding of the essence of Africa than Kapuscinski, a journalist who spent four decades covering assignments in the continent that he loved. The Shadow of the Sun represents a compilation of vignettes that either detail critical moments in African history - the rise and reign of dictators, numerous coups d'etat that befell them, genocides - or gently demonstrate how an African's mentality is not as rigid as our own: how time to him is a much looser concept, how he prefers community over individual, how he has different notions of culpability and cause and effect. That may sound crassly generalist but as narrated by Kapuscinski is not so: part of the book's resonance comes from its unifying themes, the ironic recognition that Africans, so often divided by tribalist politics, are a coherent people.

Yet although these universal themes appear, the scenes Kapusckinski draws simultaneously recognise the great variety of Africa; as he says in the foreword, "only with the greatest simplification, for the sake of convenience, can we say `Africa'". So we witness the midnight rituals of the paranoid Amba, who believe that witches live among them; the unattached, nomadic lives of Tuareg and Somali pastoralists; doomsaying sermons in evangelical sects in Nigeria; the obscene wealth of dictators and corrupt politicians. He relates each sketch through characters and communities, rather than wildlife, or landscapes, or metaphors of suffering, and this makes his tales richer: we see and hear Africa through Africans' voices and experience.

When I'd finished reading this book I was reminded that Africa is an incredibly demanding country, and that much there seems designed to wear a traveller down: public transport that only leaves when it is full to bursting; irrepressible heat; disease; con men or beggars at every corner; grinding bureaucracy; an unwillingness to repair what's broken. But at the same time I felt that I'd been naive to get annoyed by all these things. Everyday people were suffering much more than I was, yet while I was cursing, smiling faces greeted me everywhere. As Kapusckinski puts it: "their life is endless toil, a torment they endure with astonishing patience and good humour." His message is: get out there, meet and talk to Africans, understand how they see you, do your best to understand what life is like for them. It's a hugely important principle, and I'll have this book with me next time I'm there.

Ali Mazrui, 08 Jan 2008
i absolutely loved the book. though there was one hitch:

in the book, Ryzard refers to the intellectual 'Ali Mazrui' as 'Ugandan'. He is not Ugandan. He is Kenyan. To be specific from the Coastal Province of Kenya. I say this because:
1. i'm kenyan
2. i'm from the coast of kenya
... and more importantly
3. i am a distant relative of Ali Mazrui.

If the error can be corrected it would be great!

An Exerllent resource, 08 Dec 2007
Once in a while you come across a book both entertaining and loaded with useful information. Shadow of the Sun is one them - I found the author's interspersing of narrative with historical commentary very useful in understanding the present circumstances of many of the places he visited - it puts everything into context. The author has done an excellent and accessible account of his African experiences.

Africa is a big and complex continent as the author even admits and warns of failure at any generalization attempts. He however falls into this trap in some instances. I found some of his attempts at accounting the 'metaphysical African' completely unrecognizable as an African. For example in one of the chapters, he found himself in a Nigerian church in the Delta and goes on to explore African religions. He concludes that they incompatible with Christianity. He observed that Africans do not feel guilt and that to them, as long as a crime or an evil deed is undiscovered, it remains an innocent/normal action. I found that to be completely untrue. How else can one explain the forgiveness of bad thoughts in the practice of the traditional African religions I am aware, that includes am sure, the area of Nigeria he found himself. There are a few similar instances in the book, but overall, this author has an extraordinary interaction with Africans in a way most Europeans don't. He is an excellent observer and very detail in his accounts.

This is a great read and I am looking forward to reading more of his books


An Adventure Everyone can Enjoy, 03 May 2008
I don't know anything about motercycles, and could not put this book down! Even though I havn't seen the show I really felt like I was there for the whole journey. Charley does an excellent job of recording his reactions, even when they are all over the place. I really apreciate the honesty he put into the book. The inclusion of so many other Dakar stories really rounds it out, creating a true picture of the race, not just a celebrity's attempt, and would be an exciting, inspiring read no matter who wrote it.

Dull, 09 Feb 2008
I love books on travel and I ride a motorcycle, but I really had to force myself to finish this book. I got the impression it was rushed and really done as the end of the motorcycle business Boorman et al have become.
Dull in the extreme.

A great look at what the bikes are all about, 18 Jan 2008
I have read almost all other books relating to the Rally, yet I found this one great insight into what modifications are made to the vehicles and what kit is used in the great race across the desert. The first few chapters are jam packed and mechanics dream of info relating to the vehicles. the rest of the book is also great, as it's simple to read and gives a nice step by step account of the teams progress along with a few humorous stories they heard along the way. I couldnt put the book down and wished it had been a bigger book!

Really good but somewhat disappointing, 05 Dec 2007
If you like bike movies, i.e. "Any Given Sunday," this one fits the bill. It's a great motorcycle movie, and a great story, much recommended. Charley Boorman and his team are great. My only problem with the movie was that, unfortunately, Charley could have been a bit better of a rider and whined less. The movie shows a view that a rider who has no delicate touch on the handlebars may not succeed in the Dakar race. Further, it would have been great to really know who won the race that year, beyond the small mention we see; like a bit more footage of the guys who actually won would have been welcome. Also, they could have shown a bit more of how hard Matt tried to get out of where he was stuck--I would have probably torn up some grass or put my jacket under the wheels of the bike to get it out of the sand, but what do I know?

Awesome!, 21 May 2007
It's mindbending, bicep busting, heart pounding, brain breakingly good!
The way Charlie has written the book takes you through every emotion he and the crew experience as if you were there yourself, the high's, the low's, the determination, the exhaustion, everythings there.
It's an amazing book written by incredible people about an awe inspiring event.
Read this book because, it is that good!

What a woman, what an adventure!, 15 Sep 2008
This book will charm you, scare you and grip you like no other! Lois is an adventure biking goddess but if you're not into bikes don't let that put you off. At the heart of this book is an interesting travel story amusingly told. Buy it, you won't be able to put it down!

GREAT TRAVEL ADVENTURE, 08 Sep 2008
What a woman !! She does things we only dream of with humor and charm I find this kind of travel writing totaly addictive Funny, frightning, and above all entertaining its about pure travel not some sudo political tour that some writers get hung up about (they seem to have made there mind up about a destination before they got there) not lois she tells it as it is shares her fears and makes her own mind up and above all she remembers that travel is not just about getting the miles in LONG MAY SHE REIGN i will cetainly follow her future exploits who knows we could have a new English female Bill Bryson.


Lois, you're my hero!, 01 Sep 2008
This is the second Lois Pryce book I have bought and read, to add to my large collection of travel books (not all motorcycle travel), and I unable to decide if it is the best or the second best book on my shelf. Either way they are both written by Lois! This book is well named; at times I found myself holding my breath as I turned the pages, wondering what was going to happen next. I'm sure there were indentations in the covers when I finished.
My good lady is not a travel book or motorcycle fan but she simply devoured both these books in a day or two each, so I can recommend this book highly to people with a passion for bikes, a passion or adventure travel AND to people without! If Lois can go to these places and do these things by herself, I'm really looking forward to seeing what she and her husband Austin Vince Mondo Enduro: The Ultimate Adventure on Two Wheels - 44,000 Miles in 400 Days can do together. Heaven help us if they ever have kids! Buy it for yourself and leave it laying around for the rest of the family to read. Thanks Lois!

Women Rule!, 22 Aug 2008
Reading Motorcycle travel stories can be addictive.
Only the best are contagious, making me want to ride again.
This one definitely is.

'Lois on the Loose' is a perfect give away present for the (too few) motorcycle women I know, more so because there is a Dutch version.
But now, after reading this second book, I want to spread the bug again and again and again. Will there be a Dutch translation?

I am a fan. Check out her site; loisontheloose.com

wonder woman, 19 Aug 2008
What a great read!This is one of those rare books that you just want to go on and on and never stop.I've now read both of Lois's books and can thoroughly reccomend them.Her bravery is outstanding-makes Charlie and Ewen look like a pair of woossies.Can't wait for the next instalment.

A Shocking Insight, 23 Nov 2008
Quite simply I gave this book top marks because it gave such a clear and shocking insight into the DR Congo. Before reading this book I had not been aware of how depraved and destroyed this country is and has continued to be for so long. Whilst outside countries continue to pillage this wonderful country it will remain one of the most saddest stories of world history. The fact that most of the wildlife has now been destroyed across this country gives a good indication of how desperate the people's lives have become. Thank you Tim. Good luck people of DR Congo.

An easy to read travelogue, but nothing more., 16 Nov 2008
One has to admit that Tim Butcher's journey through the war torn DRC is an amazing exploit, albeit more than slightly foolish! The same cannot be said about the book. It's an easy to read travel story which is decent entertainment on a long haul flight, but I cannot understand the purpose of the book. Partly a travel narrative and partly a historic recount of Stanley's voyage through the Congo, it fails to achieve depth in both. It is also a denunciation of Congo's colonial masters, their Congolese successors and Congo's neighbours who play a role in the East-Congo conflict. It is quite repetitive: if you didn't know that Kinshasa used to be called Leopoldville and Kisangani is the contemporary name of Stanleyville, you will never forget after reading this book. A disappointment given the grandeur of the trip itself.

Feel the heat and start sweating, 06 Nov 2008
Simply a great travel book. Tim somehow manages to convey the sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere and undertones of malice and danger he experienced. We feel his discomfort, his pain, his fear, his hunger, his loss of hope for the land he travelled through. But he also introduces us to some ordinary or rather extraordinary human beings who helped him in his journey. They demonstrate real courage and determination in simply surviving without losing dignity. He doesn't rose tint his environment and vividly portrays the cruel nature of those with power in DRC. This book says a lot more about humanity than just about a journey. If you are interested in Africa then read this book.

Fascinating and insightful, 24 Sep 2008
Full of insight into the Congo, its history and relationships with its neighbours. The author's personal story makes it a good read, thanks to his detemination, sensitivity and the hardship he endures. The information he includes gives it a valuable educational quality. At the end I was filled with frustation, a sense of futility verging on anger. Colonisation has left scars and horror everywhere. It is understandable that the Congo may want to forget all that it was as a Belgian colony. But what is in its place?
Reminiscent of the potential and beauties of Africa and its people, there is a seeming disabilty for the Congo to rise above its past and take control of its future. The author clearly makes the point that in other parts of the world, this has happened successfully.
If you want to look inside the Congo (Africa?), and try to understand its issues this is 'must read'. But be prepared to wrestle with these issues, which the author so brilliantly highlights, for a long time afterwards.


over-hyped, 23 Sep 2008
this book has a very good intro and that must be what prompted the likes of le carre and william boyd to big it up

But butcher comes across as naive and a whiner, and the book quickly gets boring and repetitive.

to be honest it's hard to believe this guy is a war correspondent, he gets scared very easily while his analysis of Congolese history is oversimplistic and his UN apologism frankly nauseating

one point for trying

Very helpful guide., 09 Nov 2008
I have just returned from Egypt tour. I had this book and it was excellent helpful guide. It helped me a lot especially sights description and necessary up-to-date information.

Very Good Insight For 1st Time Visitors!, 28 Jul 2004
We've just come back from honeymoon and used this book when we visited Cairo and particularly the incredible museum... the descriptions are spot on and the book guides you thru' room by room. Our tour guide was saying practically the same things as the book, so its all you need!

Dress codes for women in Cairo aren't as strict as the book makes it out to be, there were loads of girls with string tops and shorts, so long skirts and long sleeved shirts aren't necessarily a must!! Other than that, pretty accurate about local customs and traditions.

Mixed, 08 Jul 2003
I've been to Egypt 3 times and the last time I spent 4 months there. The general consensus amongst travellers was that the Rough Guide was superior, but that the Lonely Planet has better maps. An additional issue is that since the Lonely Planet is the most popular guidebook, do you really want to be sitting smoking sheesha at a coffee shop filled with other white middle class travellers, all with Lonely Planets on their tables? Cringe!

A great book for pre-travel information, 05 Aug 2001
My copy is already looking a bit "well read" and I have only just bought it. Bursting with information and useful advise, this book is a must for anyone who is planning their own trip to Egypt.

Essential for anyone travelling to Egypt!, 14 Jul 2001
We took this