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Msomi and Me
From the pen of conservationist, Brian Connell, comes the story of two men from different worlds united by the spirit of Africa.
In what can best be described as a non-fiction novel, Connell documents the construction of his dream, Nokuthula, Place of Peace. Through many delightful anecdotes, he demonstrates the majestic yet fragile reality which is Africa.
Documenting his observations and often humorous interactions with his Zulu cohorts, Connell transports the reader to the timelessness of the tawny land he is so passionate about. Set in a time and a place of racial tension, the characters are united by a common goal and respect for each other.
Having embarked on the road less travelled, Connell eloquently and enthusiastically describes his adventures in breath taking detail. His tales of the animal kingdom are wonderfully entertaining and informative.
A must read for Africans and non-Africans alike, Msomi and Me will delight, amuse and inform from the beginning of the dream to the poignant ending.
In what can best be described as a non-fiction novel, Connell documents the construction of his dream, Nokuthula, Place of Peace. Through many delightful anecdotes, he demonstrates the majestic yet fragile reality which is Africa.
Documenting his observations and often humorous interactions with his Zulu cohorts, Connell transports the reader to the timelessness of the tawny land he is so passionate about. Set in a time and a place of racial tension, the characters are united by a common goal and respect for each other.
Having embarked on the road less travelled, Connell eloquently and enthusiastically describes his adventures in breath taking detail. His tales of the animal kingdom are wonderfully entertaining and informative.
A must read for Africans and non-Africans alike, Msomi and Me will delight, amuse and inform from the beginning of the dream to the poignant ending.
224 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2013
239 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 11, 2014
"A little ignorance can go a long way."
I was captured by this quirky quote at the outset of my journey through Brian Connell's book as he runs Nokuthula, a bush camp of photographic workshops in the African wilderness, with Msomi as his mentor.
It is a collection of anecdotes like none other, for Brian "took the road less travelled" and he also used a tape recorder to capture raw African camp fire tales.
I am reminded of the truth that asking direct questions of an African is a definite no-no; of "the way responses are quickly turned around into questions to reduce the possibility of saying something that might offend." And I love the dry humour threaded through the stories as Brian is educated by the inimitable Msomi.
I learn about the most comforting speech in the world: the talk that rain makes, I remember why I listen to the birds, and I recall the silence of Africa.
Then I shed a few tears in the wake of tragedy and loss. Africa gives, and Africa takes away.
A wonderful little book, which will cause pinpricks of nostalgia for anyone with connections to this amazing continent. It can be read - as I did - from cover to cover in one sitting; or it can be savoured, a chapter at a time
I was captured by this quirky quote at the outset of my journey through Brian Connell's book as he runs Nokuthula, a bush camp of photographic workshops in the African wilderness, with Msomi as his mentor.
It is a collection of anecdotes like none other, for Brian "took the road less travelled" and he also used a tape recorder to capture raw African camp fire tales.
I am reminded of the truth that asking direct questions of an African is a definite no-no; of "the way responses are quickly turned around into questions to reduce the possibility of saying something that might offend." And I love the dry humour threaded through the stories as Brian is educated by the inimitable Msomi.
I learn about the most comforting speech in the world: the talk that rain makes, I remember why I listen to the birds, and I recall the silence of Africa.
Then I shed a few tears in the wake of tragedy and loss. Africa gives, and Africa takes away.
A wonderful little book, which will cause pinpricks of nostalgia for anyone with connections to this amazing continent. It can be read - as I did - from cover to cover in one sitting; or it can be savoured, a chapter at a time
May 20, 2020
From the first page author Brian Connell brings his deep love for wildlife and the African experience with him to South Africa where he was a safari lodge owner and photographer guide. Although Connell was born in Kenya, making him an outsider to the South African, and Zulu, way of life, he is very much an insider to the African way of life and has clearly adopted a holistic perspective of the world that compliments his upbringing. The memoir is extraordinary in its passionate nature and candid style, making it easy to befriend Connell as he recounts his journey with his trusted South African comrades Msomi and Robert. The three are truly lovable and their gregarious nature, teasing, scheming, and banter makes them feel like the perfect characters in a sitcom -- but they are all real! -- and readers will come to know each of them as fondly as if they had visited Nokuthula in person.
The theme of Msomi and Me: Tales from the African bush focuses on life at Nokuthula and is told in a series of raw snapshots presented in chronological order. It is also a sort of biography of the people who were such powerful forces in his life and essential to the spirit of Nokuthulu. Each chapter is only as long as it needs to be, often alternating between stories of Nokuthula and folk stories told by Msomi as captured and remembered by the author. These charming tales make it difficult to put down this book or its sequels. Not everything is perfectly peaceful at Nokuthula, the "Place of Peace," but it is undeniably a warm-hearted memoir full of spirit.
In many ways this series of memoirs are an elegy and a very personal epic journey that the author has embarked on. This makes it difficult, if not impossible, to fairly critique. Connell demonstrates a great deal of literary chutzpah to overcome sometimes abrupt chapters of poetry and anecdotes that sometimes left adrift. In some of Connell's works he falls into the trap of repeating some misinformation about conservation and wildlife behaviors, but has since learned from. Unfortunately these remain uncorrected for readers who might not know any better or who don't pick up the next book in the series. In particular, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers are not soulless "breeding centers" and are not in any way like South Africa's captive lion breeding industry which does not release captive-bred animals back into the wild.
We recommend that if readers enjoy Msomi and Me, the first book written, that they quickly follow it up with its companion memoir Elephants Are People Too, and the second book in the series. The books don't fully stand alone, so the background information in Msomi and Me makes for the foundation of a truly heart-warming saga.
Further Reading:
Readers interested in a deeper and equally touching story of life in the wild would be wise to look up Kobie Krüger's The Wilderness Family: At Home with Africa's Wildlife. It is a warm and vibrant depiction of the reality of the South African Lowveld as experienced by her game warden husband and their family living inside the world famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. Like Msomi and Me, The Wilderness Family combines a special, uniquely African sense of freedom in the wild with humorous and heartfelt anecdotes that will take the reader on a true journey through South Africa.
Readers keen on exotic African adventures and wildlife behavior will enjoy the exciting adventures of Gareth Patterson who has written several books on life with lions. These books include To Walk with Lions , Last of the Free , and My Lion's Heart: A Life for the Lions of Africa , which detail lion instincts, behavior, and the challenges involved in raising lions and what considerations must be made before lions can be considered for release back into the wild.
The theme of Msomi and Me: Tales from the African bush focuses on life at Nokuthula and is told in a series of raw snapshots presented in chronological order. It is also a sort of biography of the people who were such powerful forces in his life and essential to the spirit of Nokuthulu. Each chapter is only as long as it needs to be, often alternating between stories of Nokuthula and folk stories told by Msomi as captured and remembered by the author. These charming tales make it difficult to put down this book or its sequels. Not everything is perfectly peaceful at Nokuthula, the "Place of Peace," but it is undeniably a warm-hearted memoir full of spirit.
In many ways this series of memoirs are an elegy and a very personal epic journey that the author has embarked on. This makes it difficult, if not impossible, to fairly critique. Connell demonstrates a great deal of literary chutzpah to overcome sometimes abrupt chapters of poetry and anecdotes that sometimes left adrift. In some of Connell's works he falls into the trap of repeating some misinformation about conservation and wildlife behaviors, but has since learned from. Unfortunately these remain uncorrected for readers who might not know any better or who don't pick up the next book in the series. In particular, wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centers are not soulless "breeding centers" and are not in any way like South Africa's captive lion breeding industry which does not release captive-bred animals back into the wild.
We recommend that if readers enjoy Msomi and Me, the first book written, that they quickly follow it up with its companion memoir Elephants Are People Too, and the second book in the series. The books don't fully stand alone, so the background information in Msomi and Me makes for the foundation of a truly heart-warming saga.
Further Reading:
Readers interested in a deeper and equally touching story of life in the wild would be wise to look up Kobie Krüger's The Wilderness Family: At Home with Africa's Wildlife. It is a warm and vibrant depiction of the reality of the South African Lowveld as experienced by her game warden husband and their family living inside the world famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. Like Msomi and Me, The Wilderness Family combines a special, uniquely African sense of freedom in the wild with humorous and heartfelt anecdotes that will take the reader on a true journey through South Africa.
Readers keen on exotic African adventures and wildlife behavior will enjoy the exciting adventures of Gareth Patterson who has written several books on life with lions. These books include To Walk with Lions , Last of the Free , and My Lion's Heart: A Life for the Lions of Africa , which detail lion instincts, behavior, and the challenges involved in raising lions and what considerations must be made before lions can be considered for release back into the wild.
September 22, 2017
A wonderfully written book by a man the like of which we will never see again. A true champion of all things Africa whose love of it's peoples and it's wildlife shine through in his books. His skills as a story-teller were such that the reader feels they are actually experiencing what they are only reading.
Even if you have only ever seen pictures of wildlife, by the end of this book you will feel you have actually been there. It will make you laugh and cry in equal measures - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Sadly Brian is no longer with us, but his legacy, in the form of his books, will surely live long in the memory.
Even if you have only ever seen pictures of wildlife, by the end of this book you will feel you have actually been there. It will make you laugh and cry in equal measures - I cannot recommend it highly enough. Sadly Brian is no longer with us, but his legacy, in the form of his books, will surely live long in the memory.
November 1, 2017
Well worth reading.
This was interested to read. Lots of memories about friendship znd loss. Enjoyed the stories about the people, land, and the animals of Africa. Im glad the author made it through being so betrayed.
This was interested to read. Lots of memories about friendship znd loss. Enjoyed the stories about the people, land, and the animals of Africa. Im glad the author made it through being so betrayed.
January 8, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and became engrossed in the beautiful stories and memories shared within. As a South African who has grown up with a deep love of the bush, having my first trip into the Kruger National Park when I was 6 months old and having been visiting ever since, these accounts filled me with joy and passion. The author really translates his love of the bush and the wild onto the pages and his up close encounters are awesome. Being in this beautiful place is a spiritual experince, not just a holiday, and I was reminded of this again. I felt all of the emotions as I read: Peace, happiness, anxiety, sorrow, anger and profound love and appreciation for Africa. I am very glad to have chosen and read this book, this true account of the authors experience in our stunning home.
April 22, 2021
I totally agree with everything Rebecca has to say (except that I'm not a South African myself but lived in East and South Africa for years). I've been blessed to have had the privilege of visiting Botswana many many times, some quite extended visits. Brian Connell brings his love of those vast expanses, and endless skies vividly to life. His anecdotes and prodigious knowledge of folklore and animal behavior are enviable. I would recommend this book to anyone who has a love of the African bush. There is nothing more peaceful and wonderful than awakening to the liquid sound of the Cape Dove greeting the pearly dawn of a new day, when you feel anything is possible.
January 20, 2019
Heart touching memories.
I loved this book. When I'm having a difficult time, reading a story about nature helps me so much. Mr. Connell tells of his time in the African bush with such love and caring, even laughter at times, I felt I could be there with him. I loved his closeness with the animals and land, and his belief to use photos instead of guns. I too believe we have a connectiveness with all things on earth and should work towards not destroying everything in our path to " modernize " . My fellow humans who must destroy sadden me greatly.
I loved this book. When I'm having a difficult time, reading a story about nature helps me so much. Mr. Connell tells of his time in the African bush with such love and caring, even laughter at times, I felt I could be there with him. I loved his closeness with the animals and land, and his belief to use photos instead of guns. I too believe we have a connectiveness with all things on earth and should work towards not destroying everything in our path to " modernize " . My fellow humans who must destroy sadden me greatly.
July 10, 2019
wonderful story. I laughed and I cried. I wish I had read this years ago while Brian was still alive. I will visit Africa as has been my dream since I was a teen. it will be this year. I will read Brian s other books as well. if for some reason my dream of i
visiting Africa doesn't happen, then I will have felt like I was there from the experience of reading these books.
visiting Africa doesn't happen, then I will have felt like I was there from the experience of reading these books.
May 21, 2023
Absolutely Mesmerizing
Brian’s story touched me at the most basic emotional level. I don’t know if he is a saint, but his writing reveals a man of rare humanity and character. I cried, I laughed, and I contemplated the unutterable damage the human species has visited upon the earth. There is no better chronicle of the damage our species has done to all the rightful non-human inheritors of our planet.
Brian’s story touched me at the most basic emotional level. I don’t know if he is a saint, but his writing reveals a man of rare humanity and character. I cried, I laughed, and I contemplated the unutterable damage the human species has visited upon the earth. There is no better chronicle of the damage our species has done to all the rightful non-human inheritors of our planet.
December 5, 2018
A book written in such a way as to believe you were there
What an experience, would have loved to hear more, along with tears at the tragedy of friends lost and a chapter in live to be looked at with great memories, hoping to carry on in pastures new. Thanks for sharing. A book I will read again
What an experience, would have loved to hear more, along with tears at the tragedy of friends lost and a chapter in live to be looked at with great memories, hoping to carry on in pastures new. Thanks for sharing. A book I will read again
March 6, 2020
The real africa
This is an amazing account of years spent in the true out back of Africa. The writer has much depth of understanding of the environment, the wild animals, & a couple (only) of humans. We readers are even more keen to get out there & try even in a small way to experience true African wild life.
Jackie
This is an amazing account of years spent in the true out back of Africa. The writer has much depth of understanding of the environment, the wild animals, & a couple (only) of humans. We readers are even more keen to get out there & try even in a small way to experience true African wild life.
Jackie
September 26, 2020
I like reading non-fiction tales of life in Africa. This book details the author's love of Africa and focuses primarily on the 7 years he spent operating a bush camp and photographic workshop with the help of his friend and mentor, Msomi. Funny, sad, informative and captivating. A fast and enjoyable journey.
March 23, 2021
Fantastic reading!!
Truly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I laughed out loud, shed a tear or two, and so wanted to be there. Such an adventure to have had. I only hope that Karen and the ratbag will one day get the karma they both deserve. Thank you for a fantastic story 🙏🏻
Truly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I laughed out loud, shed a tear or two, and so wanted to be there. Such an adventure to have had. I only hope that Karen and the ratbag will one day get the karma they both deserve. Thank you for a fantastic story 🙏🏻
August 28, 2021
Awesome
I loved this book. Would really love to find a paper copy to sit on my bookshelf. A funny, adventurous, and emotional journey that I felt I was a part of. I feel as if I know msomi and yourself Brian by the way I was drawn into this fascinating world. I too have experienced Africa and it really does live in your heart.
Thankyou for sharing.
I loved this book. Would really love to find a paper copy to sit on my bookshelf. A funny, adventurous, and emotional journey that I felt I was a part of. I feel as if I know msomi and yourself Brian by the way I was drawn into this fascinating world. I too have experienced Africa and it really does live in your heart.
Thankyou for sharing.
September 13, 2018
Disappointing Read
Book would have been something special from eyes of Msomi. This is an ego laden narrative by someone who speaks about "his people" when referring to staff. A tinge of racism throughout. This is besides the glaring typos. Animal anecdotes are worthwhile.
Book would have been something special from eyes of Msomi. This is an ego laden narrative by someone who speaks about "his people" when referring to staff. A tinge of racism throughout. This is besides the glaring typos. Animal anecdotes are worthwhile.
March 12, 2019
I absolutely fell into this book and didn't come out until I was finished! Wonderful writing style and stories, of the most beautiful place on earth. I laughed at some parts, and ugly cried at others. I am so very glad I read this. Good job #BrianConnell!
November 19, 2019
Fantastic read
This book had me laughing, sad (when Robert passed on), scared and towards the end I had tears of outrage on Brian’s behalf. Thank you for bringing a tiny piece of the great beautiful continent that is Africa to us.
This book had me laughing, sad (when Robert passed on), scared and towards the end I had tears of outrage on Brian’s behalf. Thank you for bringing a tiny piece of the great beautiful continent that is Africa to us.
May 29, 2020
Africa in my soul
Took me back to the Africa I love. I miss it with a passion. I felt I was there all the time reading this book. The people Bush animals sounds and big open spaces will always be in my heart
Took me back to the Africa I love. I miss it with a passion. I felt I was there all the time reading this book. The people Bush animals sounds and big open spaces will always be in my heart
June 5, 2021
Engaging
This book was made up of very beautiful stories that engulf the reader. The stories were informative, funny, sad, and extremely touching. I had a hard time putting this book down because I wanted to read about more and more interesting thing.
This book was made up of very beautiful stories that engulf the reader. The stories were informative, funny, sad, and extremely touching. I had a hard time putting this book down because I wanted to read about more and more interesting thing.
October 8, 2021
True African adventure
Amazingly beautiful story well worth reading.. This is the tale of an African way of life that will soon be list. And,a story of friendship between man and a animals thAt teaches us about what is truly important in life.
Amazingly beautiful story well worth reading.. This is the tale of an African way of life that will soon be list. And,a story of friendship between man and a animals thAt teaches us about what is truly important in life.
February 5, 2022
Awesome read on Africa
Loved this first hand account and personal reflection on life, emotional and spiritual growth in human and animal relationships in Africa. Wish I could have been a small part of this man’s African journey.
Loved this first hand account and personal reflection on life, emotional and spiritual growth in human and animal relationships in Africa. Wish I could have been a small part of this man’s African journey.
February 28, 2023
Great story
This book started off great, a page turner for sure... but then it just went flat. Understandable with the story line being told. Very sad. I shed tears more than once... Wish i could have visited!
This book started off great, a page turner for sure... but then it just went flat. Understandable with the story line being told. Very sad. I shed tears more than once... Wish i could have visited!
July 27, 2024
It is NOT one of the all time best reads of a lifetime. I couldn’t be bothered to finish it. I tried to push through and got the part where they started to receive guests, but it still did not hook me. And I LOVE stories of Africa. Thanks for trying.
August 20, 2024
A must read!
Loved the honesty and humour - being a child of Africa I could smell the dust, hear the sounds and feel the love of the people for each other, the bush and the animals.
Loved the honesty and humour - being a child of Africa I could smell the dust, hear the sounds and feel the love of the people for each other, the bush and the animals.
November 26, 2019
A must read for the armchair adventurer, however very sad at times. I will pick up the other 2 in this series soon.
June 18, 2020
A Fun Read
I found the story engaging and loved the setting.The writer was obviously in love with his subject .It was a fun .fast read.
I found the story engaging and loved the setting.The writer was obviously in love with his subject .It was a fun .fast read.
June 26, 2021
A wonderful read.
This book had me laughing, crying and holding my breath. I loved every minute of it and am looking forward to the sequel.
This book had me laughing, crying and holding my breath. I loved every minute of it and am looking forward to the sequel.
September 15, 2021
Wonderful Read
Wonderfully in-depth look on a person’s life in the African bush. If you love wildlife and Africa this book comes highly recommended.
Wonderfully in-depth look on a person’s life in the African bush. If you love wildlife and Africa this book comes highly recommended.
December 7, 2021
Fascinating.
Made me fall in love with Africa all over again.
Made me fall in love with Africa all over again.
August 21, 2022
Captured my interest from the beginning. Description of the people, animals, and land create vivid pictures in one’s mind. Truly touched the heart.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews