Sketches from the Periphery: A Novel

by M.P. Summers

Darfur, 2006: There was not much room in the tent. There was less room on the cot. She lay, intertwined with Alex, staring dreamily as light wisps of sand sifted in front of the lamp.

Alexander Barr stands on the edge of society. Humanity, devoid of civilization, is bared before him, raw and visceral.

Sketches from the Periphery, MP Summers’ debut novel, is a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of the Darfur Conflict through the eyes of Alexander Barr, a young contractor confronted not only by the harsh realities of a fractured Sudan, but with his own morality. As he strives to find meaning, he encounters Cassandra, a fiercely independent European journalist on her own quest for understanding. Their paths continue to intersect as they both are drawn deeper into the conflict.

With a blend of historical accuracy and fictional storytelling, Sketches from the Periphery offers a profound look at the impact of war on both individuals and societies, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the human stories behind global conflicts.

197 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 27, 2024

About the author

MP Summers is an internationally recognized professional environmentalist specializing in regulatory compliance and life cycle sustainability.

His career began in 2005, when he dropped out of college and pursued a contract position supporting the Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur. He has since executed environmental and sustainability projects throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

A Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a member of both the Hakluyt Society and Alianta, MP Summers has a Bachelor's degree from Jacksonville State University and a Juris Doctor from Birmingham School of Law. MP currently lives in Alabama with his wife, son, and two dogs.

His debut novel, Sketches from the Periphery, focuses on the intersectional roots of the Darfur conflict. It is available on Amazon.

Reviews

[Angela Bjornsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this book. it made me think about alot of things. very detailed and descriptive.

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Faith is the cornerstone of any ethos. Faith in the laws of Sudan has been destroyed and the people here are lashing out at the priests and functionaries of the old regime. But the racial supremacy of the Arab elite in Khartoum ensures that a segment of the population is still devout, willing to defend their belief system with the zeal of holy warriors. The Messiriya, the Rizhaget, the Baggara, all the Arab tribes of Darfur for that matter defend the law because it favors them. The people in rebellion, the African Fur, Zaghawa, Tunjer, Massalit, have rejected the law but are not offering anything as a replacement. This is devolving into violence for violence’s sake.”


This read was very timely for me - putting into perspective the ebbs and flows of inhumanity which Americans have been largely shielded from in my lifetime. Alex is a contract worker in Sudan in 2006 amidst the ongoing crisis. Through his time there, he crosses paths with people from around the world and discussions around similar circumstances ensue (Peru, Romania, Turkey…) There were such great highlights that it was hard to pick a core, representative quote as I’m oft to do, but feel free to check out my highlights in Goodreads. The reason I didn’t rate this higher despite really enjoying its insights is it leaned more toward a nonfiction book with all of the political discussions rather than focusing more on the characters and stories although I did enjoy what was there. It’s not a light read by any means but is well done and will definitely have you thinking which I feel was the author’s intent.
#goodreadsgiveaways

[Fran Burdsall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was totally unprepared for this thoughtful philosophical journey through Darfur, history, culture and a young man's journey through love. I felt like I need to savor every chapter. The author's insights put relevance and meaning to conflict, regardless of when and where the conflict surfaces. The only reason I did not give it 5 stars was that many readers will be off-put and boggled by deep philosophical discussion of religion.

[Jeanne King · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not really my genre, but I did find it interesting. I'm glad I won it on a Goodreads giveaway!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

[Mary Yarde · Rating 4 out of 5]

The splendour of Sudan and its people has been torn asunder due to the horrors occurring in Darfur.

Alexander Barr, a US citizen, bravely ventures into this war-stricken country as an overseas contractor, but his experience will change the trajectory of his life forever.

In “Sketches from the Periphery”, MP Summers presents a compelling debut novel that follows a young man’s transformative journey to find himself in the heart of Sudan during the War in Darfur. Amidst the chaos, his discovery of love’s essence reveals its beauty and its potential for heartbreak. This powerful exploration invites readers to reflect on the intricacies of human connection in the face of adversity.

Alex is a young man on a meaningful quest for his purpose in life. After making the bold decision to drop out of college, he embarks on a journey working abroad, which leads him to the tumultuous landscapes of war-torn Sudan. At just twenty-two, Alex grapples with the weight of his choices and aspirations. Amidst the backdrop of conflict and chaos, he experiences a unique and powerful connection to Darfur. The raw beauty of the land, despite its scars, captivates him. There’s an undeniable sense that he belongs there, as if the dusty winds and endless horizons whisper his true calling. This is a coming-of-age tale where, amidst the vast desert and the brutality of war, Alex ultimately discovers his true self.

In stark contrast to Alex is Cassandra, a young and ambitious European journalist whose courage seemingly knows no bounds. Fearlessly entering territories where even the bravest soldiers would hesitate, she is driven by an insatiable hunger for the truth. Unlike Alex, Cassandra exudes an aura of confidence and intelligence, possessing an innate ability to command attention and navigate challenging situations with ease. As the story progresses, the reader can’t help but feel a sense of trepidation about her reckless bravery. She is a whirlwind, a formidable force darting through the arid desert, unstoppable in her pursuit of the next “story”. Her vibrant spirit is both inspiring and alarming, embodying the relentless quest for knowledge and justice in a world overshadowed by conflict.

Alex’s self-criticism is unrelenting; he often jokingly refers to himself as a “sociopath”. Yet, his actions and inner reflections reveal he lacks a true understanding of the term and instead employs it as a sweeping label for his turbulent thoughts and his ability to make people like him and share their life stories with him. In stark contrast, Cassandra articulates her philosophical ideas with a commanding presence. She exudes confidence and conviction. Her eloquent musings and journalism expertise are used not just to express her beliefs, but also to shape the very nature of her character. Through her words, she invites the reader to engage with her unwavering certitude, providing a compelling counterpoint to Alex’s moments of self-doubt.

There are several antagonists in this story, but there is one in particular that projects fear into the reader. The reader is ahead of Alex’s discovery of who the enemy within is, but a little more detail on the backstory of the antagonist would help the reader understand her motivation. Alex does come across as a little naïve, especially regarding the antagonist. He is very trusting and takes people at face value, although as the story progresses, his awareness of the complexities and dangers surrounding him deepens.

The narrative unfolds in a deeply philosophical manner, weaving together lengthy passages of Alex’s introspective thoughts and the significant dialogues between the characters, which explore themes of religion, politics, and war. The story pivots around these philosophical reflections, making the novel feel less like an enthralling adventure at times and more like an exploration of morality and the author’s own opinions on world affairs, which sometimes distracts from the story itself. At times, the novel also reads a little like a lecture, and this significantly slows the story down.

This book deserves praise for its rich historical and geographical detailing. Summers masterfully captures the essence of the Darfur Conflict, revealing the depths of its horrors and the pervasive misery that affected countless lives, although an understanding of the conflict before reading would give the reader an advantage as to what exactly was going on. There are moments of true terror that grip the heart, yet these are intertwined with lighter, more tender themes—like the exhilarating blossoming of young love or the delightful innocence of a small child discovering the cool breeze of an air conditioner on tiny, curious fingers. The fractured landscape of this country compels the reader to grapple with the complexities of the war. The lines that separate friend from foe are exceedingly thin, catching Alex by surprise on more than one occasion. This delicate interplay between life and death installs a sense of cautious hope, suggesting that even amidst overwhelming despair, the resilience of life prevails, and a future can unfold despite the dark shadows of the present.

Through vivid imagery, Summers powerfully evokes the scenery, climate, and cultural richness of the setting, as well as the era. Abundant sensory details are present, ranging from the sun-drenched earth of the Abu Shouk IDP camp to the dramatic mountains against the seemingly endless sky. This beautiful, yet at the same time unforgiving, landscape underscores the emotional depth of the characters’ experiences. Not merely a backdrop, the landscape acts as a character, mirroring the tenacity and hardships of its inhabitants within its beautiful but harsh setting.

The story is primarily told from a third-person perspective, mainly through Alex’s eyes. However, Summers skilfully shifts the focus to provide insights into Cassandra’s thoughts and feelings through her dialogue. This approach enhances the story’s depth and complexity, offering a direct look at the motivations of both characters. At times, Summers randomly uses a third-person subjective point of view, which makes for a somewhat disjointed reading experience. However, as the narrative progresses, the author primarily adheres to the third-person perspective, resulting in a much more enjoyable reading experience.

“Sketches from the Periphery” by MP Summers is a gripping novel that masterfully delves into the intricate dynamics of morality, religion, politics, and love. With a moving and starkly harrowing narrative, Summers skilfully resurrects the complexities of this era, leaving readers both profoundly impacted and reflective.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Reviews & Book Promotion

[Angie F.]

Sketches From The Periphery by M.P. Summers is a historical fiction novel that deals with the realities of the Darfur conflict in 2006. Alexander is a college student who is struggling with his identity when he gets a job that brings him to the front lines. He also ends up relating this to other political conflicts in the world. Rather than being plot-driven, this book seems to be in conversation with the reader. The perspective of the book is very important as it is the first I have read that deals with the Darfur conflict and the global political implications of it. I also found myself agreeing with many of the observations and themes present throughout. Beyond the human, cultural, and economic costs of war, there are moral ones as well. Those points were very effectively made.

However, the subject of this book would have been better served if this was written as a memoir, narrative nonfiction, or even personal essays. I was not surprised to find out that Alexander was based on the author's own experiences. As historical fiction it suffered a bit from being only in one perspective and and much of that was written as internal monologue that seemed to be in conversation with the reader instead the other characters.

Again, this is an important topic with an important perspective, just one that would have been better served in a different format.

Thank you to Net Galley for an early digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Debra Forbes · Rating 3 out of 5]

All about strategy

I received this book for free, in exchange for an unbiased review..

This is a fictional historical novel about the war in Darfur. The story tells of a young American that travels to the war torn area. It tells of Alex' mission to integrate into the community and the ways of the war.
Alexander was based on the authors own experience.

The author told the story from a single perspective. Descriptive nature was good and well balanced. However, Summers does like to use "big words" when everyday language would suffice.

Thank you Net Gallery for the early digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Literary Titan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael Patrick Summers’s debut novel, Sketches From the Periphery, stands as a remarkable achievement in historical storytelling. It illuminates the human narratives behind world conflicts, offering a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the Darfur conflict in Sudan. For anyone fascinated by history, this novel provides a poignant and empathetic window into the lives of those impacted by one of the 21st century’s most complex crises.

The story centers on Alexander Barr, a young American contractor working with the African Union’s peacekeeping mission in Darfur in 2006. Through Alex’s eyes, readers navigate the brutal realities of a war-torn region. The narrative delves into existential themes, grappling with the enduring legacies of colonialism and the often violent dynamics of human history.

Alongside Alex’s journey is the parallel tale of Tariq, a battle-hardened operative of the Darfur liberation movement, whose life has been indelibly shaped by conflict. Although their paths do not directly converge, the interwoven stories depict life on the margins of civilization, where idealism and survival clash in a haunting dance. Adding richness to the narrative is Cassandra, a fiercely independent European journalist whose presence brings a fresh dynamic to Alex’s search for meaning. Her depth and resilience make her a standout character. Summers deftly blends historical fiction with profound philosophical reflection, creating a layered and immersive experience.

The novel not only exposes the raw truths of the Darfur conflict but also challenges readers to confront broader questions about humanity’s capacity for both destruction and creation. The richly developed characters, each grappling with moral complexity, bring the story’s themes to life in vivid and unforgettable ways.

Sketches From the Periphery is an evocative and introspective work, appealing to history enthusiasts, fans of philosophical literature, and readers drawn to stories of resilience and moral struggle. Even for those who may not typically choose books about war, this novel offers an unparalleled journey into the depths of human conflict and the search for meaning amidst chaos. It’s a profound, moving, and deeply worthwhile read.

[Barbara Folly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short book by an unknown author, but there is alot to take in with it. I ultimately had to read it twice, which is something I seldom do. It is not a traditional narrative, it doesn't follow an articulable story per se, but rather an evolution in thought and understanding. Part historical fiction, part coming of age, part philosophical treatise, this was a thought provoking work. 
Set in Darfur in the early 2000s, the book follows a blank slate of a main character who is exposed to the brutal realities of conflict. He is inquisitive, but his is a mature naivete that allows for a more nuanced assessment of his experiences.   Much of the book is dialogue with others involved in the conflict-peacekeepers, journalists, contractors, soldiers, rebels, etc.. The two most impactful characters, Cassandra and Henri, represent opposing viewpoints. Both are seasoned veterans of the human condition. Cassandra takes a more philosophical perspective while Henri represents a pragmatic and slightly ruthless perspective. There is raw and deeply authentic emotion in the interactions through the conclusion. 
The book focuses strongly on the interconnected nature of conflict, generational trauma and strength, and resilience .  These themes are as applicable to other conflicts as they were-or are as the author notes in the afterward-in the ongoing conflict in Darfur.  
As I write this review, I note that the on-going war in Sudan is the largest humanitarian crisis on the planet. This timely work reminds the reader of this 
Afterthought- probably not the most accessible book if the reader does not have a basic interest in geopolitics or world affairs.  Would generate some interest book club discussions.

[Sonia Martel · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Curiosity is the greatest of evils and should be god damned to hell.”

This book is outstanding, an undiscovered gem. Summers’ prose is both lyrical and unflinching, capturing the sensory overload of Darfur—the smell of cordite after a training session, the taste of illicit aragi, the silence of the wilderness. His passion for the reason shines through in vivid descriptions of the region’s geography, from the Wana Hills’ volcanic sands to the Marrah Mountains’ ancient terraces. These landscapes are not mere backdrops but characters in their own right, embodying the resilience and contradictions Summers seeks to explore. The novel’s structure, with its fragmented timeline and shifting perspectives, mirrors the disjointed nature of life on “the periphery”—a term that recurs as both a literal and philosophical motif.

Thematically, Sketches from the Periphery grapples with weighty questions: What drives someone to enter a war zone? How does one reconcile curiosity with the guilt of voyeurism? What is Darfur, beyond the headlines? Alex’s journey is less about heroism or redemption than about bearing witness. His encounters—with a Belgian journalist named Cassandra, a South African colleague named Henri, and the shadowy Captain Saleh—reveal the complexity of motives in a conflict zone, where idealism, opportunism, and survival collide. Summers avoids easy answers, instead letting the characters’ actions and silences speak to the moral quagmire they inhabit. The book is both haunting and though provoking.

[Radu Dumitrescu · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do you write about a drawn-out, genocidal civil war in a country that is not your own? MP Summers, who worked for the African Union in Darfur, did just that in his debut novel. Mixing fact and fiction, he portrays the never-ending fighting in western Sudan, central Africa. The focus falls on Alexander Barr, an American contractor witnessing the horrors and trying to find the meaning behind them.

The pros: From the start, you can feel the raw passion of a fully involved author. The story is personal, and the author wants us to be there as he was, in 2006, in the early years of a war is still largely ongoing now, 20 years later. Extremely reflective, Sketches from the Periphery does not revel in descriptions of violence. Instead, it shows characters trying to exist on the edges of it, involved spectators trying to stay sane through the madness.

Cons: On the negative side, there are too many references to contextualizing events, names, and nations that may be unfamiliar to most readers. As a result, you need to watch some videos on the conflict - past and present - in Darfur before reading.

Conclusion: "This place would be a lot different if the mongols had not sacked Baghdad a thousand years ago." The statement stuck with me as I read, and made me realize why I love history. Deep and challenging in so many ways, Sketches from the Periphery should find a place on your TBR.

[Ruffina Os · Rating 5 out of 5]

MP Summers’s Sketches from the Periphery is a literary triumph: harrowing, insightful, and deeply humane. By threading together the stories of Alexander, Cassandra, and Sudanese voices like Tariq, the novel transcends the usual boundaries of war fiction. Summers’s attention to Sudan’s political and cultural landscape is meticulous, painting a portrait of a region shaped by history, geography, and conflict. The episodic structure and shifting perspectives immerse the reader in the chaos and uncertainty of war. The book’s most outstanding achievement is its emotional resonance—each character’s journey is rendered with honesty and compassion. Summers challenges us to confront uncomfortable truths about intervention, survival, and the limits of understanding—a must-read for those drawn to global stories and ethical issues.

[Carlos Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Curiosity is the greatest of evils and should be god damned to hell.”

Of all the themes in this book, this stood out to me the most. This book is a poignant and introspective work of fiction that deftly weaves personal narrative, historical context, and philosophical inquiry against the backdrop of the Darfur conflict in 2005–2006. Drawing from what appears to be the author’s own experiences as a young State Department contractor in Sudan, the novel offers a vivid, outsider’s perspective on a region marked by violence, resilience, and complex socio-political dynamics.

Through its richly textured prose and layered storytelling, the book succeeds in capturing the atmosphere of Darfur while grappling with universal themes of curiosity, morality, and the human condition.

[Zee's Bookish Haven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sketches from the Periphery is incredibly raw and gripping. It is powerful, raw, thought provoking, and portrays such realistic emotions and reactions to what is going on. The characters were relatable despite this book being held in extreme situations. The story-telling is top notch making it a worth while read. I have received a free copy on BookMuffin from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review

[Adrianne Kennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was not what I expected. It is not a typical story but it pulled me in and challenged me to think about concepts I am not often exposed to. I think the author did a great job tying in the characters to the concepts that he explored. I don't know if I would consider this a traditional novel or a fictional story that examines philosophy, conflicts, and politics. regardless I really really enjoyed the story and hope to read more by the author.

[Masha Samson · Rating 5 out of 5]

worth the read and I cannot stop thinking about this book. the author should write more on this subject and is clearly passionate about it. the characters felt very authentic and I wonder how much truth there is in this novel. I highly recommend this book.

[Christian Sia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sketches from the Periphery: A novel by M.P. Summers is an immersive tale of war with an international setting in Sudan. Strong historical references and a wonderful way to capture the challenges of living in a war-torn country as an ordinary person.

[Tami Bartshe]

This was a DNF for me.