By Charles Davis, Permanent Press, 160 pages

Told with occasional humor and an upbeat philosophy of life, this book is the tale of a journey fraught with the dangers of pursuing soldiers, thirst and hunger, and travel over brutal mountains and deserts. Brought together by the need to escape to safety, an African man and a Western woman find themselves struggling to understand each other as they fight their way forward. A delightful read, providing a new way of viewing life and death and even religion. While describing unthinkable cruelties against helpless victims, the author still manages to inject a practical sense of tolerance and an easy way of enjoying the moment, regardless of the circumstances. There is love and laughter along with the danger on this adventurous journey. The characters are interesting and provoke empathy from the reader who will be hoping for a successful outcome.

Fran Byram