A novel, set in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) in the immediate post-colonial era. The hero is a young African policeman whose experiences symbolise the fortunes of a continent in transition.

Nofel wedi ei lleoli yn Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) yn y cyfnod ôl-drefedigaethol. Mae profiadau'r arwr, sef heddwas croenddu, yn cynrychioli hynt a helynt cyfandir wrth iddo newid.

Although born in Wales, Geraint Jones has spent most of his life in Africa and his novel vividly conveys the spirit and atmosphere of this vast continent.

It relates the story of Jairos Mapfumo, a young African who, because of his exceptional promise, is befriended by a schoolteacher and a priest who are both keen to see him make a success of his life. All goes well until Jairos’s father is suddenly killed in an accident, an event which places heavy responsibilities on his shoulders. His attempts to overcome circumstantial challenges in a newly emerging Africa are described with the subtle touch which one would associate with an accomplished fiction writer, although this appears to be Geraint Jones’s first book. Recommended.

Dewi Roberts

It is possible to use this review for promotional purposes, but the following acknowledgement should be included: A review from www.gwales.com, with the permission of the Welsh Books Council.

Gellir defnyddio’r adolygiad hwn at bwrpas hybu, ond gofynnir i chi gynnwys y gydnabyddiaeth ganlynol: Adolygiad oddi ar www.gwales.com, trwy ganiatad Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru.