Books

Boston: Little, Brown, and Company, 1935. Very good plus in near-fine jacket.. First US edition of this classic WWI adventure story (with a dash of romance), following a skipper and a missionary's housekeeper as they plot to destroy a German gunboat — adapted into a Hollywood film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn. Far from the tall ships of his celebrated Horatio Hornblower series, C. S. Forester opted for a 20th-century riverboat adventure in THE AFRICAN QUEEN. The NEW YORK DAILY NEWS called the novel "one of the best stories in many a day," noting that, despite the odds stacked against the struggling protagonist Rose, "never for a moment does the reader question her hopes of victory" (76). It was a role played to perfection by Katharine Hepburn in the 1951 film adaptation, and earned her an Academy Award nomination. THE AFRICAN QUEEN appears on numerous American Film Institute best-of lists, and Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart together top their list of greatest US…

"African Queen" by C.S. Forester is an enthralling narrative set against the backdrop of World War I in Africa. The story revolves around two contrasting characters, Rose Sayer and Charlie Allnutt. Rose is a prim and devout missionary mourning the loss of her brother and trying to survive amidst the war's chaos. Charlie, on the other hand, is a rough, practical, and somewhat coarse boat captain. When Rose's missionary station is destroyed by German soldiers, she and Charlie, faced with the threat of German occupation, decide to escape. They hatch a daring plan to navigate the treacherous Ulanga River aboard Charlie's dilapidated boat, the African Queen, aiming to strike a blow against the Germans by sinking a German warship. As they embark on this perilous journey down the river, the unlikely duo faces a myriad of challenges—navigating dangerous rapids, battling nature's hazards, and dealing with their conflicting personalities. Initially at odds, Rose and Charlie gradually develop a deep mutual respect and camaraderie. Their journey becomes a testament to human resilience, determination, and the unexpected bonds that can form amidst adversity. Throughout their expedition, they encounter various trials that test their endurance and resourcefulness. From evading enemy forces to surviving the harsh conditions of the river, their adventure is fraught with danger and unexpected turns. Despite their differences, Rose and Charlie's partnership evolves into a tale of courage, love, and the triumph of the human spirit. Forester's storytelling paints a vivid picture of the African landscape, immersing readers in the beauty and perils of the wild, untamed river. The novel expertly combines elements of adventure, romance, and wartime drama, offering a gripping narrative that captures the essence of bravery in the face of adversity. As their journey progresses, Rose and Charlie's characters undergo significant development, transforming from individuals with starkly contrasting personalities into a formidable team, united by a common purpose. Their experiences bring to light the strength of the human will and the unexpected connections that can arise amid turbulent times. "African Queen" is a timeless classic that explores themes of resilience, survival, and the transformative power of human relationships, leaving readers captivated by its riveting storytelling and unforgettable characters.