Matt McAvoy Book Review

Quite a heavy going read, but pretty entertaining for it.  Edward McMahon is a great writer with an undoubted interest in his subject matter, though I would suggest this book will appeal primarily to those who share his passion for the nuts and bolts of Sub-Saharan politics, politics general or democratic process in the making.  In it, an American international development worker is tasked with liaising with all parties to ensure fair and democratic elections in the fictional Central African country Kombonia.  As you might expect, there are all the usual issues relating to anti-democracy and those who wish to seize power, and those who wish to create and fill a power vacuum, amongst good men and women who want to bring democracy to a country which has never known it.

This high-end book is about the minutiae of politics, political campaigning and the democratic process, but also a heartfelt, profound look at the lives of the people in countries which are so volatile, and where violence can interrupt progress at a moment’s notice.  There is a small smattering of such political violence in this book, but it is primarily a study in hope.  The primary character, Adam, is wonderfully human, with just the right mixture of humility and hubris – perhaps more of the former – to get the job done, despite his doubts, yet not afraid to take credit where it is due.  Furthermore, he manages to toss in a fair amount of leisure respite, clearly enjoying and making the most of the circumstance he finds himself unexpectedly and bewilderingly lured into without preamble.  The relationships between characters from very different cultures is really what Wisdom and the Baobab Tree is about, at its roots.  It doesn’t condemn or unfairly show bias against any side or ideology; it doesn’t presume to be right or judgmental in any way; it rather just reports semi-fictional process in intricate detail.

McMahon has tremendous qualities as an author, and some enviable credentials, but none more so than his intimate knowledge of the content.  He is indisputably an authority in African politics and international diplomacy in their respect.  This is not a book you read to drift off at night, though it might have that effect, but to expand your mind and your world view.  It is a book which teaches you something – not necessarily in terms of fact, but rather how to interpret our pre-conceived ideas about a situation most of us will never experience.  There is an affectionate look at all peoples involved, from the politicians themselves to the diplomats desperately trying to enable progress, to the insurgents, and the voters themselves; all are featured with equal platform, and McMahon shows his ability to be objective throughout.  His writing style is top drawer, and whilst the book may not appeal to those looking for fun, there is no denying its immense qualities and those of its extremely promising author.