Nelson Mandela: A Life in Photographs

by David Elliot Cohen, John D. Battersby

A celebration of freedom and the man who fought so valiantly for it: NELSON MANDELA

Almost 20 years ago, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela—brutally imprisoned in South Africa for his struggle against apartheid—was finally released. This beautiful illustrated volume commemorates that event and Mandela’s inspiring life and work.

Created by renowned author David Elliot Cohen—who has worked with many of the top photojournalists who chronicled the “apartheid battles”—Nelson Mandela contains many images that have rarely, if ever, been seen, as well as the more iconic photos that have lingered in people’s minds. Like Obama: The Historic Front Pages, this will be rich in illustrations and elegantly designed, and will contain brief essays and key Mandela speeches rather than a running text.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography Memoir, South Africa, History, Africa, Leadership

221 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Melissa]

Great photos, speeches, and interviews but there is no consistency or timeline.

[Jon]

A great book for learning the history and context of the inspiring figure, Nelson Mandela.

Not only does this book house photographs that are unlikely you've seen before, but it records pivotal speeches and educates the reader on causes and impact of apartheid.

What stood out to me the most was the conversation between Bill Clinton and Mandela in the latter's cell when Mandela shared that "he forgave his oppressors because if he didn't they would have destroyed him" (Bill's recounting).

This connected to Mandela's interview after stepping down as President of South Africa.
Paraphrasing;
When you have an objective for your life you want to focus on it and avoid infighting with your enemies.
Concentrate on creating an atmosphere where you can move everyone to your goal.
Forgiveness is natural, because after setting your goal you will have no time to retaliate.
Mobilize everyone to support your cause.

Would that we all strive to develop such clarity, courage, and commitment.

[Brooke]

On one hand, it's super cool to see photographs of such an extraordinary person's life. On the other, how can the author truly do justice to portraying the life Mandela led? I found the photo's accompanying text to be obnoxiously repetitive (photo captions said the same things over and over and over), but four of Mandela's speeches (I believe) were included, which was a nice touch. I think this might be a good choice for whetting one's appetite when it comes to Mandela, but for more in-depth information, perhaps Mandela's own autobiography would be a better choice...

[Ryan Berry]

this book really shows how wrongly convicted mandela was to be placed in jail for such a long time, and how he ended up being the african national convention's firsst black president which is a accomplishment.

[Becky]

I feel like a better human being just for having read this.

[Michael Pyle]

This book contains Mandela speeches, in English. It contains photos from when Mandela was young, when he was in prison, and afterwards.

I enjoyed it a lot.

[Ironflower]

I am glad its finally available in the States! YEEBO!