A Guide to the Birds of East Africa

First, and most importantly, despite the title of this book, it is not a field guide. Rather, it is a novel, and a charming one at that. But it does deal with birds and East Africa!

Mr. Malik is a middle-aged, fairly well-off widower living in Kenya’s capital city of Nairobi. Not too long before, following his doctor’s orders to reduce stress in his life, he took up birdwatching. It wasn’t long before he fell in love with Kenya’s birds. But that wasn’t all that he fell in love with. He also developed feelings for Rose Mbikwa, the leader of a weekly bird walk.

Mr. Malik had finally, almost worked up the courage to ask Rose to an important annual ball when Harry Khan shows up. Harry was an old, but not fond, acquaintance of Malik’s from school. He hadn’t really been a bully, but wasn’t the nicest person either. But Harry was many things that Malik was not: handsome, popular, and outgoing. And he also had his eyes set on Rose.

This conflict was brought to light when Harry dropped by a club to which Malik happened to be a member. Everyone agreed that it would be bad form for both men to ask Rose to the ball simultaneously. Someone had to make the proposal first. But which one? It was decided that there would be a contest. Whoever saw the most species of birds during the next week, within certain guidelines, would have the honor of asking first.

During the following week, the rivals found many birds. But they also found more than they bargained for, including an army jail cell and more than one encounter with armed thugs. But who will get the girl? Will they even survive long enough to ask?

I was very surprised to find that the birds of East Africa play but a very small role in this story. But I was perhaps even more surprised to find that I didn’t mind! These quirky characters are very likeable, and I found myself caring about what happened to them. Even Harry, the antagonist, is somewhat likeable, and most definitely amusing.

Even though this is a work of fiction, the reader will still learn a great deal about this region. The culture and political workings are especially fascinating. And, of course, you will be introduced to the birdlife of the country. I should note that some reviews have indicated that some of the birds would not ordinarily be found where they were in this book. I’m not familiar with the birds of this region, so I cannot comment. But any such errors should not affect your enjoyment of the story.

The author tells his story in an unusual style, using an omniscient narrator to describe the events. This narrator often refers to him/herself in the first person. Thus, you will find sentences such as: “Before we find out more about the mysterious stranger I should tell you a little more about Mr Malik, and about Rose”. This stylistic choice seemed awkward at first, but I came to accept and, eventually, enjoy it. It adds a great deal to the story’s charm and quirkiness, and encourages the reader to sympathize with the characters.

Recommendation

Fun, charming, and humorous, this is a delightful read. It would be perfect reading material for your next birding trip. Or any other time, for that matter.