It wasn't planned ahead of time, but just happened to work out this way, that in the last month I have managed to escape some of the winter cold and darkness of the Northwest by being "transported" to Africa. First, B and I went to see The Lion King in Seattle. We've wanted to see this Broadway musical since watching a special program on TV a few years ago about the brilliantly creative Julie Taymor. We were anxious to see her costume and stage design work for The Lion King, and we were thrilled with both! We loved the evening of stunning visuals and wonderful music.And then yesterday, after a last-minute invitation from a friend, I went to see the Lucy's Legacy Exhibit at the Pacific Science Center. The tickets were for both the exhibit and the IMAX movie, The Mystery of the Nile. So for hours yesterday, we were completely immersed in Ethiopian history and culture.
And then, tired and hungry, we headed for the freeway to go home. But as we stopped for a red light, I looked over and saw an Ethiopian restaurant, and when I mentioned it to the others in the car, they all immediately said, "Let's stop!" So we had a lovely and absolutely delicious late lunch of traditional Ethiopian food to complete the day's immersion into the culture. It was a magical day!And oh yes, I've always loved reading about Africa. Here are some of the books I've enjoyed over the years:
The Blue Nile, by Alan Moorehead
The White Nile, by Alan Moorehead
Out of Africa, by Isak Dinesen
West With the Night, by Beryl Markham
The Flame Trees of Thika, by Elspeth Huxley
Venture to the Interior, by Laurens Van Der Post
The African Queen, by C.S. Forster
The Akimbo series, by Alexander McCall Smith
4 comments:
That really was a magical day. How nice for you. I've read one of Moorehead's book many years ago and I will be reading West with The Night in the Compass Points reading challenge soon. It must be good if you've mentioned it.
You could probably start a Read Africa challenge with what you know from your reading.
Thanks, Sandra. I've been fascinated by Africa for many, many years. I hope you enjoy West With the Night.
May I suggest The Strong Brown God, by Sanche de Gramont? It's about the exploration of the River Niger by Mungo Park. I was fascinated.
md
Mary, that sounds like something I'd really enjoy. Thanks for the suggestion. I'd never heard of it before!
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