Dark Star Safari Overland from Cairo to Capetown

Paul never takes an easy step when a harder way is on offer. Side trips and diversions galore as he travels south thru the amazing African hinterland.

Hate it hate it hate it!

The only book by Theroux that I had read before was "Fresh Air Fiend" and back then I had this impression about the author that he was a little too grumpy about everything, especially when he described his trips in China. This African travel writing book is no different: he constantly complains about discomforts, delays, and irrationalities he experiences en route to Capetown. Still, I...more

The only book by Theroux that I had read before was "Fresh Air Fiend" and back then I had this impression about the author that he was a little too grumpy about everything, especially when he described his trips in China. This African travel writing book is no different: he constantly complains about discomforts, delays, and irrationalities he experiences en route to Capetown. Still, I liked it so much not because of his grouchiness but because he seriously questions the usefulness of charities and other NGO activities in Africa throughout the book. If you want to understand his point but have little time to read the whole book, read the chapter on "The Back Road to Soche Hill School." It will give you a general idea of what he is trying to say, based on his experience as a Peace Corps volunteer 40 years ago as well as his many encounters with smug western aid workers on white Land Cruisers.   hide

i found this book funny, and that it brought up a good point about 'aid' in africa. i especially like the mocking of missionaries.