This is a beautifully written memoir about a horrific time in Africa. It was difficult to absorb and understand, so I listened to it slowly, so I could "try" to understand it. But, honestly, I don't understand it all.
I don't understand the recent colonialism in Africa (or anywhere, actually), the subjugation and discrimination against the African Blacks, and the civil wars with the white minority fighting to retain their power.
Additionally, I wouldn't say that I enjoyed this memoir, but it was an enlightening and important book to read.
OVERALL REVIEW: 4.0 stars
Writing: 5.0 stars
Alexandra writes beautifully about the good, bad, and ugly during her childhood in multiple countries in Africa.
This was written in first person, so it was shocking to know and understand that a child experienced these horrific, tragic, and violent events. It was exceedingly graphic, at times.
Also, this was not a linear memoir so it can be a little confusing at times.
Narration: 4.5 stars
The narration was done by Lisette Lecat, who did a fantastic job with the various voices and accents. However, I prefer that the author narrate their own memoir.
Character development: 4.5 stars
The main character is Alexandra (Bobo).
The secondary characters are Alexandra's parents, Tim and Nicola, and her sister Vanessa.
There are many characters throughout the memoir, but they are all the same stereotypical individuals transplanted in different places. That is how they seemed to me, honestly.
The character development was incredible for Alexandra as she is shocked and surprised by so much throughout the book. Alexandra's parents and sister are developed, but they are not the focus of the book.
I must be honest and state for the record that I despised Alexandra's parents as well as the other white colonizers.
Memorable: 5.0 stars
I was shocked at the entitlement and superiority of the white colonists, in general. This memoir was set during the 1970s/80s, which is somewhat recent.
There was a comment by the mother, Nicola, that asked why there isn't a white country for whites in Africa. That was and is the core of the problems in Africa - everyone wants their piece.
Entertaining/Educational: 4.5 stars
This memoir made me realize how much has been taken from Africa and the individual governments by the colonizers, but little is given back to the native peoples. It is a very uneven and abusive set of relationships.
Book cover: 5.0 stars
Perfect - loved the black and white picture.
Book title: 5.0 stars
On point.
Definite recommend
Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) borrow: audiobook
Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller
10 hours, 11 minutes
Recorded Books, Inc.
Release date: 12/1/2001
INFORMATIONAL LINKS
Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL)
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Graphic blood, gore, and violence, death of an animal, death, medical content, medical trauma, mental illness, alcohol, alcoholism, colonialism, racism, xenophobia, cursing, pregnancy, loss of a child
Happy reading,
Dorothea 💜
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