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The Shadow of the Sun

My African Life
4.39 goodreads logo

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( 15,689 ratings, 1,307 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski is a vivid and insightful account of the author's experiences in Africa over several decades. The book captures the diverse cultures, politics, and landscapes across the continent, providing a deep and intimate understanding of African life. Each chapter offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities and beauty of Africa through Kapuscinski's eyes.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you appreciate vivid, insightful travel literature that delves deep into the cultures and politics of Africa. Written by a celebrated journalist, it offers a profound, personal account of the continent's complexities, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding Africa beyond the headlines.

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The Shadow of the Sun

Creates an account of post-colonial Africa seen at once as a whole and as a location that wholly defies generalised explanations. This book gives a sustained meditation on themosaic of peoples and practices we call 'Africa', and an impassioned attempt to come to terms with humanity itself as it struggles to escape from foreign domination.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski offers a profound and evocative portrayal of Africa, a continent often viewed through a simplistic and monolithic lens. Kapuscinski, an acclaimed Polish journalist, has journeyed to Africa since 1957, experiencing and witnessing the continent's history first-hand over decades of upheaval and change.

In this remarkable blend of reportage, memoir, and travel literature, Kapuscinski avoids the typical paths trodden by foreign correspondents. Instead of focusing on palaces, official routes, and high politics, he delves deep into the everyday lives and struggles of ordinary people. He paints a vivid picture of Africa's post-colonial landscape, a mosaic of cultures and histories meticulously depicted through his lens.

The Shadow of the Sun spans a period of time marked by the continent's efforts to break free from the yoke of colonialism, grapple with the newfound intoxications of freedom, and deal with the complex realities of war and survival in the face of political turmoil. His encounters are narrated with a rich, poetic style that captures the essence of the numerous countries he visits.

Kapuscinski's relationship with Africa is profound and long-standing. The depth and variety of his experiences there, combined with his fervent endeavour to view life away from officialdom, offers a raw and authentic account. He provides readers with a comprehensive and empathetic understanding of Africa, resisting the urge to make generalized explanations in favour of presenting a complex, dynamic, and multifaceted continent.

Throughout The Shadow of the Sun, Kapuscinski reflects on humanity's relentless struggle against oppression, its pursuit of liberty, and the persistent shadow of political corruption and theft. His vivid storytelling and keen observations make this work more than just a collection of essays; it is an immersive journey into the heart of Africa, enriching our understanding of its peoples and their resilience.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski is highly praised for its vivid and profound depiction of African life over 40 years. Reviewers commend Kapuscinski's blend of plain prose and poetic imagery, his deep understanding of Africa, and his powerful storytelling that conveys the complexities, tragedies, and beauties of the continent. His work is described as both intellectually acute and emotionally rich, with a unique and informed perspective that is both engaging and enlightening.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140292626

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 March 2002

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Contributors:

  • Translated by Klara Glowczewska

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 15.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 234g

Pages: 336

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About the Author

Ryszard Kapuscinski was a legendary journalist and writer whose previous books include ANOTHER DAY OF LIFE, THE EMPEROR: DOWNFALL OF AN AUTOCRAT (which Salman Rushdie called 'an unforgettable, fiercely comic, and finally compassionate book'), SHAH OF SHAHS, IMPERIUM and THE SOCCER WAR.

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