The Bottom Line
For such a great explorer there is little material in-print. Bierman's 'Dark Safari' makes an ideal companion to Stanley's own books and autobiography. If you see it, buy it.
Pros
- One of the Victorian era's greatest adventurers
- Well researched (claims newly discovered documents)
Cons
- Very pro Stanley, despite his role in the Congo
- Entire expeditions covered in only three maps
Description
- Hardback: 401 pages
- Publisher: Alfred A Knopf (Random House Inc), © 1990
- ISBN: 0394583426
Guide Review - Dark Safari by John Bierman
A definitive biography of the larger-than-life figure of Henry Morton Stanley, who was commissioned by the New York Herald to find Livingstone, was a war reporter during the Asante War in the Gold Coast, and worked for King Leopold II of Belgium (creating road and river communication network which led directly to the formation of the Congo Free State), and the reckless trek to rescue Emin Pasha (who didn't want to be rescued). This biography is an entrancing read, full of the perils of African exploration and the dire consequences of colonial African politics. Bierman was based in Nairobi for 4 years and has managed to impart a feeling for the difficulties Stanley encountered in his many expeditions. If you find a copy, buy it.
