Karl Maier has often been asked why he has chosen to live for so
long in Africa, with its wars and famines and its labyrinthine
politics. Partly, he explains, it is because of his tremendous
sense of admiration for the courage and determination of so many
Africans, as they struggle to surmount their difficulties, and
because Africa has welcomed him over the years. He describes it as
'a place of constant surprise and seemingly limitless energy' and
clearly loves it. This book is intended to provide a balanced
picture of Africa in the late 20th century, as its peoples
endeavour to adapt to a rapidly changing world. Maier notes that
the era of 'big man' politics is fading and, instead, responsible
government is the new goal. He provides fascinating portraits of
individuals working hard to make a difference in their communities.
In particular, he introduces women such as Sibongile Zungu, a Zulu
paramount chief, or Merci Manci, who campaigns for better awareness
of AIDS, but we also meet university lecturers who have turned
their backs on rich pickings overseas, and ordinary men and women
who risked their lives in the Rwandan uprisings to save their
friends and neighbours, often at terrible cost. And yet, there is a
sense that Maier is doing little more than scratching the surface.
Because Africa is so complex a matter, one can hope to do little
more in one book, but to hang political analysis on personalities
is often risky. Nevertheless, a compelling account of a continent
working hard to make a difference. (Kirkus UK)
Experience Africa's vibrant and volatile struggle at the crossroads between tradition and modernity . . .
INTO THE HOUSE OF THE ANCESTORS
"Rich . . . fascinating." —The New York Times Book Review
"A master of eyewitness description and of the telling interview, [Maier] has unearthed Africa's hidden heroes and heroines." —Financial Times
"Maier has written a sensitive and complex narrative. . . . excellent descriptions of the lives and experiences of both ordinary and extraordinary individuals in different parts of Africa." —Richard Leakey, The Times (London)
"A remarkable book. . . . It is no easy task to articulate an intangible undercurrent in an area so geographically large and culturally diverse, but Maier has succeeded admirably. Maier gives us hope that [the Africans] can rebound and even thrive. Highly recommended." —Library Journal
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