Emmanuel Dongala is an African novelist of outstanding ability. In The Fire Of Origins, we are introduced to Mankunku, born of mysterious circumstances on a banana plantation, we follow his personal saga in an unnamed African country from its pre-colonial era through the horrors of European subjugation, to independence and all the complexities and contradictions, ideals and disillusionments of post-colonial self-rule. The Fire Of Origins is peppered with memorable characters ranging from charlatans and saints, to workers and bureaucrats, to warriors and peacemakers. The Fire Of Origins is rewarding, engaging, highly recommended reading by a truly gifted author which will leave the reader eagerly looking forward to more of his work in the future.

I have read both the French original and the German translation of this book and it is brilliant. Political and private life in Congo seen through the eyes of a naive if scientifically minded young boy results in an epic without the boring bits. Compelling read. If you can read either of the two versions, do. And could someone please do an English translation as well ...