Subject
German East Africa -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Herbert Strang
Tom Willoughby's Scouts: A Story of the War in German East Africa
"Tom Willoughby’s Scouts: A Story of the War in German East Africa" by Herbert Strang is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Tom Willoughby, a young Englishman who travels to German East Africa to explore his father's coffee plantation, only to become embroiled in the tensions of World War I. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into themes of colonialism, adventure, and the moral complexities tied to the exploitation of the land and its people. At the start of the novel, Tom Willoughby boards the "Hedwig von Wissmann" at Lake Tanganyika in 1914, where he encounters various characters, including Mr. Barkworth, who warns him of his German partner's potentially unscrupulous nature. Once in Bismarckburg, Tom meets his partner, Curt Reinecke, and confronts the realities of the plantation that has been running with little success. The tale then deepens as Tom begins to suspect Reinecke of wrongdoing while navigating life on the plantation. The growing tension intensifies when Tom finds himself trapped in a perilous situation, facing not just the challenges of the land but the dark motives of the people around him. As he grapples with survival, the themes of loyalty and betrayal come to the forefront, setting the stage for a gripping tale of adventure and moral dilemmas in an era of imperial conflict.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
Wilmshurst of the Frontier Force
"Wilmshurst of the Frontier Force" by Percy F. Westerman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Second Lieutenant Dudley Wilmshurst of the Nth West African Regiment as he embarks on active service in the treacherous terrains of East Africa during World War I. The narrative delves into themes of courage, camaraderie, and the stark realities of war while introducing a vibrant cast of characters, including Wilmshurst's devoted servant, Tari Barl, and his fellow officers. The opening of the novel presents a vivid scene as Wilmshurst is awakened by his servant to prepare for active duty. The text introduces the harsh conditions of the tropical climate, the preparations for embarkation, and a sense of urgency as the regiment readies for deployment against German forces. In the meantime, Wilmshurst reflects on his older brother Rupert, who is missing in action, hinting at personal stakes intertwining with military duty. The camaraderie among the troops and the bond between Wilmshurst and his men are emphasized, setting the stage for the adventures and conflicts that are to unfold in the later chapters of the book.
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