The legendary travel writer s thrilling and dangerous account of his journey across Africa A rattletrap bus dugout canoe cattle truck armed convoy ferry and train. In the course of his epic and enlightening journey wittily observant and endearingly irascible Paul Theroux endures danger delay and dismaying circumstances. Gauging the state of affairs he talks to Africans aid workers missionaries and tourists. What results is an insightful meditation on the history politics and beauty of Africa and its people.