Journal Entry 1 by Catwoman from Sherwood Park, Alberta Canada on Sunday, May 30, 2004

Very short book. Love Bryson's writing. His description of the plane ride is very funny - I can relate to his dislike of flying. One of the best lines in the book:

(describing some of the CARE workers)
"'They live far away from their friends and families in places like this that are generally difficult and often dangerous, trying to help people they don't know to have better lives. Pretty remarkable really. Could you do that?'"

I couldn't. 

Journal Entry 2 by Catwoman from Sherwood Park, Alberta Canada on Monday, May 31, 2004

Sending this book on an international bookray. Participants:

allbookedup (Austria - ship Europe/international if needed)- finished!
cartref (UK) - finished!
billhookbabe (UK - ship international) - finished!
Skyrider (UK - ship international)- finished!
Muffin77 (Germany - ship international)-finished!
lady-anglophile (Kuwait - ship international)- finished!
Gooby (Australia - ship international)-finished!
Ada2 (Australia - ship Australia preferred)-skipped on request
Readinator (Australia - ship international)- finished!
mlbish (US - ship US)- finished!
jenndiggy (US - ship US)- finished!

Thanks to all who participated. :-) 

Journal Entry 3 by Catwoman at on Sunday, June 06, 2004

Released on Sunday, June 06, 2004 at Mailed to a fellow Bookcrosser in n/a, n/a Controlled Releases.

Mailed to allbookedup today to start the bookray. Hope you enjoy it! 

Journal Entry 4 by allbookedup from Wien Bezirk 21 - Floridsdorf, Wien Austria on Tuesday, June 15, 2004

I was really surprised when this book came today in the mail. I was like "What IS this?" when I saw the package, because it was so small and thin! ;-) I thought it couldn't be a book.
But this is actually a good thing that it is so thin, because my Mount TBR is enormous and it means I will finish this book quickly! Thank you, catwoman! 

Journal Entry 5 by allbookedup from Wien Bezirk 21 - Floridsdorf, Wien Austria on Thursday, June 17, 2004

I liked the book, but I was a bit disappointed. Bryson's visit to the CARE centre was so short and the descriptions only superficial.
But it's a good reminder that we should really be thankful every day for our rich lives, millions of people in Africa have nothing and no future.

I agree with catwoman, the sentence about the care workers really makes you think about the great sacrifices they make and how many lives they can change, for example the wells that were built.

Just got cartref's address and will send the book off tomorrow morning! 

Journal Entry 6 by allbookedup from Wien Bezirk 21 - Floridsdorf, Wien Austria on Friday, June 18, 2004

Journal Entry 7 by cartref from Derby, not specified not specified on Saturday, June 26, 2004

sent to me in the post by allbookedup as part of a bookring, many thanks,look forward to reading it. 

Journal Entry 8 by cartref from Derby, not specified not specified on Saturday, June 26, 2004

Recived this book today,and as it was wet and windy outside decided to start reading it,as its only a short book also finished it. A short story about Bill Bryson visit to Kenya to report on the work done by the charity CARE.He visits slums that the workers help at, water is so precious what we use to flush our toilets once a person lives on for a day - drinking, cleaning, cooking etc. I agree the bit about the plane flight was good fun. One comment I think is so true is when an worker says the poverty and slums do not go away just because the media lose interest. A short book to read which give's a glimse of the problems.

Will be passing it on to billhookbabe. 

Journal Entry 9 by billhookbabe on Sunday, June 27, 2004

Just received from Cartref, looking forward to the read 

Journal Entry 10 by billhookbabe on Wednesday, July 07, 2004

I found this book to be humorous and interesting but agree that Bill could have been more descriptive and that his visit was too short. I suppose he wasn't anywhere long enough to really get to grips with what he needed to say. However, the point of hte book is to raise funds for CARE and I guess that is what it did.

Having said all that, I read it in a short time and laughed out loud many times. This is the first Bill Bryson book I have read and I enjoyed it.

Book to go to Skyrider in the next few days, enjoy. 

Journal Entry 11 by Skyrider from Cambridge, Cambridgeshire United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 13, 2004

Arrived safely in this morning's post. Thanks to billhookbabe for sending it to me and to Catwoman for starting the ring in the first place. I'll journal again when I've read it — at fifty pages it shouldn't take long....
 

Journal Entry 12 by Grads-Cafe from Cambridge, Cambridgeshire United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 20, 2004

Well, it only took an hour or so to read, and I have to echo everyone else's comments. Bill Bryson plays his usual role of the genial incompetent abroad as he visits Kenya and tries not to get shot, be involved with an air crash or have dung rubbed in his face. It's quite entertaining, but not quite up to the standard of some of his earlier stuff.

The book was sold as a fundraiser for CARE international. If anyone else feels guilty that by reading this via a bookring that you're doing them out of a donation, it's possible to give online here.

On its way to Muffin77 now... 

Journal Entry 13 by Skyrider from Cambridge, Cambridgeshire United Kingdom on Tuesday, July 20, 2004

Ooopsie — sorry. The above journal entry was typed by me. It's just I'm setting up an OBCZ at the moment and keep getting confused as to whether I'm logged in as me or the OBCZ address. Apologies, grovels and sorry if I've confused everyone. I've certainly confused myself.... 

Journal Entry 14 by Muffin77 from Leipzig, Sachsen Germany on Monday, July 26, 2004

safely arrived here about 5min ago - and hey *skyrider* you'll be visiting Dresden??????? You got me confused with your card =:o)).
Will start reading the book tonight. Thanks already!!!!!
-----
Edit about 7 hours after the above text: Skyrider I finally understood your postcard!!!! It was written in the name of the book *gg*... Already have "lady-anglophile"'s address so I try to read the book fast. 

Journal Entry 15 by Muffin77 from Leipzig, Sachsen Germany on Friday, August 06, 2004

well, first of all I am sorry for the delay - some personal issues came in the way... anyway, yesterday evening I read the book and it was the first one by Bill Bryson for me. So now I am wondering: is he never watching the news? What does he think is going on in the world? I just wondered again and again if he had ever heard of refugee camps in Africa, of help-organisations and what they do, of the needs of refugees and people in an underdeveloped country, of corruption.... Sorry, I liked the writing style itself but I am not sure Mr. Bryson lives in reality.
The book will be sent tomorrow to *lady-anglophile*. Enjoy! =:o)) 

Journal Entry 16 by Muffin77 at Postal release to fellow bookcrosser (Dresden) in -- Per Post geschickt/ Persönlich weitergegeben --, Sachsen Germany on Friday, August 20, 2004

Released on Friday, August 20, 2004 at Postal release to fellow bookcrosser in Dresden, Sachsen Germany.

Sorry for the delay - had some private things to take care of first. Now I am feeling a bit better and sent the book on today. 

Journal Entry 17 by norafrvr from Kuwait, Kuwait Kuwait on Monday, September 06, 2004

i received and read the book :)

thanks Muffin77 for the nice postcard :))

i liked the book. there are some funny parts in the book i couldn't help myself to laugh :)

i will send the book on as soon as i get Gooby's address.

thanks for inculding me in this bookring 

Journal Entry 18 by norafrvr from Kuwait, Kuwait Kuwait on Wednesday, September 08, 2004

Mailed to Gooby in Australia,, ENJOY :) 

Journal Entry 19 by Gooby from Melbourne, Victoria Australia on Thursday, September 23, 2004

Received by post from lady-anglophile in the marvelously named Jileeb Alshuyoukh. I really need to find a friend who collects stamps! 

Journal Entry 20 by Gooby from Melbourne, Victoria Australia on Sunday, October 03, 2004

I agree with others who point put that this is rather superficial and that Bryson only got a very brief picture of the work of CARE and the live of those they work with.

Nevertheless, a ten because those who do this work need others to hear about it. We need to hear the stories of individuals who are benefitting so that we don't get overwhelmed and turn away. We need to be reminded that running water is a cause for celebration. We need to rejoice in our houses, safety, health, sanitation, education, opportunities. We will hopefully respond by doing a little towards alleviating the injustice - for we CAN make a difference. 

Journal Entry 21 by Gooby from Melbourne, Victoria Australia on Monday, October 04, 2004

Posted to Readinator, Ada2 having already been given a copy. Thank-you, Catwoman! 

Journal Entry 22 by Readinator from Woodend, Victoria Australia on Tuesday, October 05, 2004

Thanks Catwoman for starting this. Look forward to a good quick read, and will send on to mlbish. 

Journal Entry 23 by Readinator from Woodend, Victoria Australia on Tuesday, October 26, 2004

I enjoyed this quick, gently funny read over one lunchtime. Thanks Catwoman for sharing! Certainly reminds you of the good work that non-government orgs are doing, and how much there remains left to do.

Will send to mlbish when I have an address. 

Journal Entry 24 by Readinator from Woodend, Victoria Australia on Friday, November 05, 2004

A nice quick read. Food for thought! It's good to see things happen for the world's poor, but there is such a long way to go! Thanks very much Catwoman for sharing this one. 

Journal Entry 25 by Readinator from Woodend, Victoria Australia on Tuesday, November 09, 2004

Put in the mail for mlbish today. Airmail, because the book (and the little extra that accompanies it!) is thin enough to count as a letter! It should reach the US in a week or so. Enjoy! 

Journal Entry 26 by mlbish from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA on Thursday, December 02, 2004

Caught before Thanksgiving. Sorry I wasn't able to journal the book until now. I will read it and pass it along ASAP. Thank you, readinator for the extra little book! I loved the article about BC. I'll keep that one moving too, so others can share it. 

Journal Entry 27 by mlbish from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA on Monday, December 13, 2004

I read this little book in one sitting last night. (Well, I was lying in bed, but details, details...)

It was so great. I love Bill Bryson. He's a great writer. He usually manages to be funny, insightful, and often poignant at the same time. This short bit left me wanting much much more!! I hope against hope that he will go back to Africa for a full-length book sometime soon.

He alluded to another book for which he was researching early humans. I haven't read it, but I assumed he was referring to A Short History of Nearly Everything (is that the right title?). His interest in protohumans has made me more excited about reading that book!

Thank you for sharing, Catwoman. I am going to visit Grads-Cafe's link to donate to the CARE organization so that I have not taken money from them by participating in this bookring. 

Journal Entry 28 by jenndiggy from Terra Alta, West Virginia USA on Friday, December 24, 2004

Just received it today. Family is arriving for our Christmas party. Will read after the holidays. :)

12/28, read this book last night. Wow, how he kept things humourous at times while describing what he saw in Africa shows what a good writer he is. I loved his airplane ride, and the opening of the book. Mailed this to becca-mo today. Sent it first class since it was only 50 cent more than media. :)

Working on extending this bookray.

This is subject to change as we get more people signing up:


becca-mo (ship US)
Lucinda (CA- US)
OneMorePage (CA)
ds3233 (AZ - INT)
AceofHearts (ON -- INT)
Fofum (UK- INT)
bookmaniac70 (Bulgaria - INT)
Ebumu (NY)



 

Journal Entry 29 by Rita-Booke from Bartlett, Tennessee USA on Monday, January 03, 2005

received in the mail today. looks like I may be able to finish it before leaving work! will have to PM the next person ASAP.
Update: yes, I finished it at work. Not surprising as it is less than 50 pages long and, as his readers can attest, Bryson's writing is easy-reading. Bryson paints a beautifully vivid picture of Kenya and the help CARE, Intl is providing the country. Fans of Bryson will not be disappointed as he masterfully weaves humor, fear, and compassion in every sentence. 

Journal Entry 30 by Rita-Booke at Controlled Release in Controlled Release, --by post or by hand (ie ring, ray, RABCK, trade) -- Controlled Releases on Tuesday, January 04, 2005

Released on Tuesday, January 04, 2005 at about 3:00:00 PM BX time (GMT-06:00) Central Time (US & Canada) at Controlled Release in Controlled Release, Controlled Release Controlled Releases.

RELEASE NOTES:

on its way to Lucinda
DC 0304156049177715 

Journal Entry 31 by Lucinda from Ventura, California USA on Thursday, January 13, 2005

Just received in a book ring. Will read next! 

Journal Entry 32 by Lucinda from Ventura, California USA on Wednesday, January 19, 2005

I love, love, love Bill Bryson! I wish the book could have been a few pages longer, but I enjoyed it immensely. Sent off to OneMorePage today-- enjoy your first bookring! 

Journal Entry 33 by OneMorePage from Mission Viejo, California USA on Tuesday, January 25, 2005

I rec'd this yesterday and finished read it in one sitting, as I was supposed to be mopping my kitchen floor. This was infinitely more enjoyable. My first experience with a bookring couldn't have been nicer.

I just LOVE Bryson, and read everything I can find with his name on it. I enjoy how he pretends to be the "genial incompetent" as Skyrider called him, but with a tremendous thirst for knowledge and preservation of our world.

Here is a typical laugh-out-loud passage, vintage Bryson:
"I am disappointed to find that there is no mosquito net around the bed in my room. Unaware that Nairobi is malaria-free, I slather myself with insect repellant and pass a long night sounding like two strips of parting Velcro each time I roll over in the bed and dreaming terrible dreams in which Jungle Jim, assisted by a tribe of white pygmies, chases me through the streets of Omaha with dung balls."

My only criticism is that this book was entirely too short. I wanted to know more about all of the people he wrote about.

I, too, am going to make a donation to CARE.

Off now to ds3233. 

Journal Entry 34 by OneMorePage at Bookring in Bookring, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases on Tuesday, January 25, 2005

Released 7 yrs ago (1/26/2005 UTC) at Bookring in Bookring, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

 

Journal Entry 35 by ds3233 from Sun City, Arizona USA on Monday, January 31, 2005

Received in the mail today from OneMorePage. Will read ASAP and send it on it's way. 

Journal Entry 36 by ds3233 from Sun City, Arizona USA on Tuesday, February 01, 2005

Very short. Well written, but I would have liked a full length book. Waiting for the address of the next participant to send it on. 

Journal Entry 37 by ds3233 at RABCK in RABCK, A RABCK -- Controlled Releases on Thursday, February 03, 2005

Released 7 yrs ago (2/3/2005 UTC) at RABCK in RABCK, A RABCK -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

Sent to AceofHearts today in Ontario, Canada. She's next on this bookring. 

Journal Entry 38 by AceofHearts from Mississauga, Ontario Canada on Tuesday, February 15, 2005

Received in the mail today
TBR 

Journal Entry 39 by AceofHearts from Mississauga, Ontario Canada on Sunday, March 20, 2005

I agree with the other journallers that the book is a little superficial. However I loved Bryson's writing style and will definitely read more. I loved his description of the night without a mosquito net and the airplane ride.
The book makes you really think of all that we have
Extremely quick good read!!! 

Journal Entry 40 by AceofHearts from Mississauga, Ontario Canada on Wednesday, March 23, 2005

mailed today 

Journal Entry 41 by Fofum from Beverley, East Yorkshire United Kingdom on Tuesday, March 29, 2005

The book has arrived here today - and what an inviting cover! Thanks also for the postcard, Ace of Hearts. I'll journal again once I've read it. 

Journal Entry 42 by Fofum from Beverley, East Yorkshire United Kingdom on Monday, April 25, 2005

A fascinating read in true Bryson style. I enjoyed this, but felt his style needs the 'luxury' of greater length. He is a wordsmith and this 'short' format was limiting. It wasn't, however, produced as a full scale book, but a taster for Care and as such it made me think and act upon it, so it was an effective read!
It is now on its way to Bulgaria - almost as well travelled as Bryson himself! 

Journal Entry 43 by bookmaniac70 from София / Sofia, Sofiya Bulgaria on Tuesday, May 03, 2005

Received today. Hope to finish it very quick. 

Journal Entry 44 by bookmaniac70 from София / Sofia, Sofiya Bulgaria on Saturday, May 07, 2005

The book was very short,I confess I wanted for more because I liked the feel of Africa which Bryson managed to convey even in such a short writing. It was a good reminder about the poverty which governs the Third World,and a reminder for us to be thankful for the far better living conditions.

The book is going to NY. 

Journal Entry 45 by bookmaniac70 at to a bookcrosser in sent by mail, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases on Tuesday, May 10, 2005

Released 7 yrs ago (5/9/2005 UTC) at to a bookcrosser in sent by mail, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

Sent to last participant. 

Journal Entry 46 by Ebumu from Ithaca, New York USA on Friday, June 03, 2005

Received this in the mail yesterday, all the way from Bulgaria. I'm looking forward to reading it--thanks to all! 

Journal Entry 47 by Ebumu from Ithaca, New York USA on Tuesday, June 07, 2005

Journal Entry 48 by Ebumu from Ithaca, New York USA on Monday, June 27, 2005

Journal Entry 49 by cougmax from Seattle, Washington USA on Friday, July 08, 2005

This little book is so amazing! Look at the beautiful journal entries it has already found on its trip around the world.
Well, I just returned from four weeks in West Africa, it was an amazing, eye-opening adventure. I will include something from Ghana with the book when I send it on. The postcards in the book are beautiful and I will continue them on in their journey. I will read this quickly and get it back on the road, it has many miles still to cover in our world. 

Journal Entry 50 by cougmax from Seattle, Washington USA on Tuesday, July 12, 2005

It was beautiful! I loved it!
My only wish is that it was longer. That Bill Bryson had stayed longer and traveled more of Kenya to share with his readers. I love his comical way of dealing with danger and the unknown. I am full of passion for his fearless action in walking through the toughest, saddest part of the city and talking to the people facing that reality everyday.
I will get the baby book full of heart back on the road to booklady331 with a pic of Ghana to add to the postcard collection... 

Journal Entry 51 by cougmax from Seattle, Washington USA on Thursday, July 28, 2005

The African Diary is on the move again...
Off to booklady today.
I included a bookmark made with beads purchased road side throughout Accra, Ghana. I also included a picture of school children from a small village outside of the city in Ghana.
I hope this beautiful book continues it travels throughout the world.
 

Journal Entry 52 by booklady331 from Cape Coral, Florida USA on Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Received today (8/2/05) from Cougmax as part of a bookring. I will read it in the next couple of days and then send it on. I am excited as I am going to Africa in October with World Vision. 

Journal Entry 53 by booklady331 from Cape Coral, Florida USA on Tuesday, August 02, 2005

I sat down and read the book in one evening. I found it very interesting as I am going to Zambia, Africa in October for 10 days. I will be going with World Vision which appears to have a similar mission as CARE. Take time to look at the web sites of these two organizations. Both do more than handouts. They want to help the people to become self-sufficient. The more I think and read about it, this should be the type of aid we give. The aid goes directly to the people and not through the hands of the politicans.

As a teacher, I am amazed at how the students learn with so little. Maybe our children have too much.

This is off to mepwave as part of a bookring. Enjoy. 

Journal Entry 54 by booklady331 at By Mail in Controlled Release, Given to a fellow bookcrosser -- Controlled Releases on Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Released 6 yrs ago (8/5/2005 UTC) at By Mail in Controlled Release, Given to a fellow bookcrosser -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

Enjoy 

Journal Entry 55 by mepwave from Pennington, New Jersey USA on Friday, August 19, 2005

Arrived today! Can't wait to read it and the bookcrossing article too :) 

Journal Entry 56 by mepwave from Pennington, New Jersey USA on Tuesday, August 23, 2005

I had no idea that this book was a fundraiser for CARE before signing up for the ring, and now I feel guilty for not purchasing a copy myself. At any rate, havin g just returned from Africa and seeing conditions much like the ones described in his journal, I can say that this is a region that needs more care and that I hope groups like CARE are able to get more support for the good work they do to fiht poverty. As soon as I get her address I'm sending this along to Sobergirl. 

Journal Entry 57 by Sobergirl from Turku, Varsinais-Suomi Finland on Tuesday, August 30, 2005

Thanks! The book arrived!
 

Journal Entry 58 by Sobergirl from Turku, Varsinais-Suomi Finland on Wednesday, August 31, 2005

I liked this a lot!
Bill Bryson is my favourite author at the moment!
And the book has very nice pictures.
I will mail the book to Makari tomorrow!
 

Journal Entry 59 by Makari from Siilinjärvi, Pohjois-Savo Finland on Friday, September 02, 2005

Looks very interesting. Thanks Ebumu, thanks Sobergirl 

Journal Entry 60 by Makari from Siilinjärvi, Pohjois-Savo Finland on Thursday, September 08, 2005

Simply - this book was an excellent description about Eastern Africa, Kenia today. My experience in Tanzania, when I visited there(years 2001, 2003, 2004) was very like this. Again I strongly feel, that I have to do something practical and give my help.

The next reader is in UK (Navig8r) - I mail this as soon as possible. 

Journal Entry 61 by Navig8r from London , Greater London United Kingdom on Wednesday, October 05, 2005

Thanks for sending this - I received it yesterday and finished reading it in the evening! It's definitely very short.
I did enjoy the book, but I just wished it could have been longer. There wasn't room for much of Bill's style to come out (a glimmer of it was in the plane ride though - hehe!). Most of all I love the fact that he was willing to do it, even if it was for a short time. I hope Bryson decides at some point to go back to Africa and write a proper book about it. I can imagine there would be plenty of material. I would certainly love to read more about Africa and the people.
I also thought the photography in the book was very very good - especially the boy with the football.
The book is heartbreaking; so many people in poverty and the solution apparently so simple yet so difficult to achieve in reality. It really is the small steps that make a difference. I was also glad that he made the point that giving to charities like CARE does *not* mean that the money ends up in the hands of a dictator. It does have a strong message of hope.

I'm PMing the next person on the list for their address. 

Journal Entry 62 by sunlightbub from Wallasey, Merseyside United Kingdom on Thursday, October 06, 2005

I had no idea this little book had been to so many people before me...I 'll finish it quickly and get it on it's way...A minor disaster to report though. When it arrived today it was in a post office bag, advising it had been damaged while 'in their care'. It looks like the envelope had got wet and split..The book itself is intact but the dust cover now has a small rip in it..Given how many people it's been round, it's in remarkably good condition though.I'll pm the next pariticpant for their address now and hopefully read and post on in the next few days..Thanks for the chance to read this..


Ooops sent this on yesterday 11/10/05 but forgot to update the status.. Obviously, this is a short book that cannot do justice to the depravation suffered by the people that CARE helps. However, it was an interesting read that opened my eyes to some of the issues in Kenya in particular. I didn't feel that Bryson's style negated the message, in fact I felt his humour was a reaction to the horrors of what he saw. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read this. I will certainly be looking into the work of CARE and making a donation. 

Journal Entry 63 by ScottishHoosier from Westhill, Scotland United Kingdom on Thursday, October 13, 2005

Came in the post this morning. Thank you to sunlightbub for sending it, Ebumu for organizing the ray and Catwoman for starting it on its travels. Oh, yes, to whomever else put things in with it. I haven't had a chance to look at it all properly. Had an appointment for my son this morning at the hospital, and am about to collect my daughter from the childminder. 

Journal Entry 64 by ScottishHoosier from Westhill, Scotland United Kingdom on Wednesday, October 26, 2005

I really enjoyed this little book. As always, Bryson is funny and witty. At times it is terribly touching, though. It is amazing, all those people living in the largest slum in Africa, so that their children get a good education!

I've got the next address, so I'll be posting it today. 

Journal Entry 65 by LastMango from Little Britain, Ontario Canada on Tuesday, November 01, 2005

This arrived in the mail along with the collection of postcards. I promise to read it soon and forward to the next on the list. 

Journal Entry 66 by LastMango from Little Britain, Ontario Canada on Friday, November 04, 2005

This was an interesting little read.

I hope to have it on it's way to Olifant by Monday. 

Journal Entry 67 by LastMango from Little Britain, Ontario Canada on Tuesday, November 08, 2005

Mailed today to Olifant. Enjoy the read! 

Journal Entry 68 by Olifant from Porthmadog, Wales United Kingdom on Monday, November 14, 2005

This well-travelled little book has safely arrived in The Netherlands. Thanks for sending and raying.

Bill Bryson's African Diary has been to 17 different countries




Updated: January 2009 

Journal Entry 69 by Olifant from Porthmadog, Wales United Kingdom on Saturday, November 19, 2005

A bit short and a bit superficial, yet for a good cause!

It’s amazing how long it took aid agencies to figure out that people really, really don’t want dependency. They want to help themselves.


Man Eaters Junction is so called, by the way, because in 1898 during the construction of the railway about 140 Indian workers were snatched and eaten by two lions (giving a whole new meaning to the term “Indian takeaway”).


Eatsletters is on holiday till the end of November. Will send the book when address is received.
 

Journal Entry 70 by Olifant from Porthmadog, Wales United Kingdom on Saturday, December 03, 2005

Received a PM today from eatsletters in which she asks to be skipped. So now waiting for QueenSissi's address. 

Journal Entry 71 by Olifant from Porthmadog, Wales United Kingdom on Monday, December 05, 2005

Posted today to Portugal! 

Journal Entry 72 by QueenSissi from Gouveia, Guarda Portugal on Saturday, December 17, 2005

It has arrived. Thanks a lot... 

Journal Entry 73 by QueenSissi from Gouveia, Guarda Portugal on Friday, February 03, 2006

I would like to apologise for keeping this book for so long. this book, though very short, contains a lot of unknown (to me) information on Africa - and it is a good compliment for ONG's that are doing a good job throughout the worls.

Thanks everyone...sending it forward on Monday. 

Journal Entry 74 by ZlatkoGR from Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki Greece on Monday, February 13, 2006

Arrived today with the mail. Unfortunately i found no envelope. Only the book. But it doesn't seem damaged at all...

Thanks for this! 

Journal Entry 75 by ZlatkoGR from Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki Greece on Wednesday, February 15, 2006

I don't want to say anything about this excellent book except from one thing:

WAKE UP PEOPLE! 

Journal Entry 76 by ZlatkoGR from Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki Greece on Monday, February 27, 2006

No response from moomin22 so i'm sending a PM to MissTerry for the address...

edited 1/3: MissTerry wants to be skipped so i'm sending a PM to labmomnm now...

edited 1/3: And labmomnm wants to be skipped so i'm PMing your-book-fairy... 

Journal Entry 77 by ZlatkoGR at Postal Release in Sent To The Next Bookcrosser, Bookray -- Controlled Releases on Tuesday, March 14, 2006

Released 6 yrs ago (3/14/2006 UTC) at Postal Release in Sent To The Next Bookcrosser, Bookray -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

Sending this to your-book-fairy...

Enjoy! 

Journal Entry 78 by Ebumu from Ithaca, New York USA on Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Have a look at our sister ray (same book), run by labmomnm:
http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/1528495/

Over there, Kernow8 has pledged a donation to CARE for every reader. Pretty cool. Let Kernow8's generosity motivate you to consider a CARE donation, yourself! 

Journal Entry 79 by your-book-fairy from South Orange, New Jersey USA on Monday, April 24, 2006

Well, for a book about an adventure, this one certainly had one of its own making the trip from ZlatkoGR to me. I'm not sure when it landed back in the States, but it got caught up in a very odd little cycle my mail got stuck in for a while. I moved after the new year, and had all my mail forwarding from my old apartment to my new house. Somehow in there something got switched, and my mail was going from my new house to my old apartment. Then, and I'm not 100% sure about this, it seemed to have been going back and forth between both post offices without ever landing at the house or the apartment.

Luckily I seem to have moved to Mr. Roger's Neighborhood here in the suburbs, and my friendly postmaster helped me sort it all out and this book was waiting for me in the pile of mail that had been looping around for a while that finally got delivered yesterday. What a nice surprise ending to a pretty annoying story! And since it's such a short read, I've already finished it (my daughter has a bad cold and spent all day sleeping on my lap while I read) and am waiting to hear from jennannej so I can get it moving again by the end of the week.

Now, about the book. What a pleasure. I love Bryson's writing and this was no exception; what a wonderful use of talent for a good cause. I agree that it's too short and a superficial look at a big issue, but sometimes spreading the word is best done in small doses. And spread the word he did: I not only ended up making a donation to CARE, but then in an extra dose of feeling guilty about having so much when others have so little, I ended up sponsoring a 5 year old Bangladeshi boy through Save the Children (though I also agree with booklady about WorldVision, whose mission and methods are also well worth checking out).

Thank you so much for sharing and to everyone who has gotten it this far already! 

Journal Entry 80 by your-book-fairy from South Orange, New Jersey USA on Thursday, May 11, 2006

It took a while to hear back from jennannej and she has asked to be skipped, so I'm mailing this off to ResQgeek today! 

Journal Entry 81 by ResQgeek from Alexandria, Virginia USA on Monday, May 15, 2006

Arrived in the mail today. It will be next in my TBR pile. 

Journal Entry 82 by ResQgeek from Alexandria, Virginia USA on Wednesday, May 31, 2006

The timing of the arrivals of my bookrings lately has been creating interesting coincidences. This arrived while I was reading The Poisonwood Bible, which is also set in central Africa. I've just finished that one, and I don't expect this one to take nearly as long to read. I'll post my thoughts and send the book on to its next stop soon. 

Journal Entry 83 by ResQgeek from Alexandria, Virginia USA on Friday, June 02, 2006

A (very) brief overview of Kenya and its people, this book serves as a vivid reminder of the huge disparity between the "haves" and the "have nots" of the world. Bryson's trademark humor keeps this book from becoming overwhelmingly depressing. It is clear that he was moved by the poverty he saw, as well as the efforts of the people to improve their lives. The success stories, however modest, are inspiring beacons of hope in what could be a bleak world. Bryson's all too brief descriptions of the countryside also highlight the great beauty of Kenya, which simply magnifies the tragic lack of tourism. I'll be adding CARE or a similar charity to my payroll contributions this year, for sure!

I'll be sending this off to India later today. 

Journal Entry 84 by hshah from Mumbai, Maharashtra India on Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Thanks! Found this in my room yesterday when i went back home from work. Its been raining in Mumbai and so decided to start the book with a nice cup of hot tea.
I loved the book and didnt want it to end. But good things always come to an end. The book has given me a new prespective towards life, realising im far lucky than what i seem to think. However i was a little disappointed with very little written about the visit to the centre.
Sending to gussy916!
 

Journal Entry 85 by gussy916 from Singapore, Singapore Singapore on Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Caught it! Thanks Heena,
this was one of the first bookrings I signed up for, and I'm so glad its finally here. 

Journal Entry 86 by Ebumu from Ithaca, New York USA on Friday, July 14, 2006

Hey! I just noticed that our little book is one of bookcrossing's top ten traveled books! It doesn't show any signs of stopping, either.

To gussy916 and hshah, our hearts and prayers go out to you in the wake of the recent bombings in Mumbai. ((hugs)) 

Journal Entry 87 by gussy916 from Singapore, Singapore Singapore on Monday, August 07, 2006

Sorry! I took so long with this little book. I got caught up with moving home and starting my new life and this took a bit of a back seat.
I have Katyan's address so should send this out this week. 

Journal Entry 88 by gussy916 at Indian Postal Service in Postal Mail, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases on Friday, August 11, 2006

Released 5 yrs ago (8/11/2006 UTC) at Indian Postal Service in Postal Mail, A Bookring -- Controlled Releases

WILD RELEASE NOTES:

RELEASE NOTES:

On it's way to Katyan in Finand.

I cant believe this book has travelled so much! I'm glad to be part of its journey...if only I could travel like it too...sigh.

Safe travels little book! 

Journal Entry 89 by katyan from Detroit, Michigan USA on Tuesday, August 22, 2006

This little book arrived to Finland yesterday! Thank you! 

Journal Entry 90 by katyan from Detroit, Michigan USA on Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Oh, I loved this little book. It was well written as Bill Bryson's books always are. I enjoyed it too because it was so light but anyway gave a bigger picture of Kenya. However, I agree with the others too that it would be nice to know more.
Thank you for sharing this treasure, I'll send it soon to Sirah! 

Journal Entry 91 by Sirah from Helsinki, Uusimaa Finland on Monday, September 04, 2006

Thank you, Katyan, for sending the book. 

Journal Entry 92 by Sirah from Helsinki, Uusimaa Finland on Tuesday, September 19, 2006

A nice piece of a book, but to my taste little bit too short. I would have liked more descriptions of the work of CARE and of course more of the Kenyan people, life and nature. It was good that Bryson included the pictures, it made the book richer.

I´ve contacted MissTerry for the address. 

Journal Entry 93 by MissTerry from London , Greater London United Kingdom on Thursday, September 21, 2006

Arrived today - thanks! In a queue of bookring books behind one other still to be started. But as this is a very small book, I should get through it pretty quick! 

Journal Entry 94 by MissTerry from London , Greater London United Kingdom on Monday, September 25, 2006

Short work was made of this yesterday afternoon while enjoying the sun in the park. Like many readers before me, I thought that Bryson barely scratched the surface re life and struggles in Africa...

Will PM squirrel818 for their address. 

Journal Entry 95 by MissTerry from London , Greater London United Kingdom on Friday, October 13, 2006

Finally this book is on its way again! On its way to azuki due to the non-response to various PMs sent to the people between azuki and me..

 

Journal Entry 96 by azuki from Miami, Florida USA on Monday, October 23, 2006

Arrived in Miami! I can't believe how good the condition this book is in considering the amount of travel it has done. (I am envious of all the places it has been to!) Shouldn't take long to complete and forward to menalima. Is the book settling down finally or it's planning a new world tour already? 

Journal Entry 97 by azuki from Miami, Florida USA on Monday, October 30, 2006

I wasn't too impressed with Bryson's Notes from a Small Island, but enjoyed this a lot more. It's a short book, but if a picture is worth a thousand words... I wish they had included even more, including some of the beautiful scenery Bryson kept gushing about.

I am shipping this to menalima tomorrow. Hopefully this book will continue its soujourn and stay on the top 10 most-travelled chart. Thank you so much for letting me be a part of its adventure! 

Journal Entry 98 by menalima on Wednesday, November 08, 2006

Received book in post today, can't wait to start reading this one as anything on Africa I lap up lol:)

Thanks for sharing!

P.S. Oh and yes as soon as I've read this book I'll be letting it go on more travels:) 

Journal Entry 99 by menalima on Friday, November 10, 2006

Eish finished this book yesterday and although I liked it....I was sort of expecting more from it? After all I'd read about Bill Bryson's writting I'm afraid I don't think it came all through?

Anyways going to make this book available again for great travels:) 

Journal Entry 100 by menalima on Thursday, November 16, 2006

sent book out today for it's next round of travels: starting at Katethegreyt and ending in South Africa! Happy readings:)