Peter Godwin

The title refers to the native explanation of a solar eclipse, whcih is considered to be extremely bad luck. The crocodile is Mugabe.

Godwin is an accomplished journalist who grew up in Harare and now lives in New York. His aged mother still lives there. His father died in 2005. The book is a memoir, but also a report of the current state of affairs in Zim. It is, to say the least, chilling.

In my three trips to Zim, the last in 2005, I've found it difficult to understand the outlook of the remaining white Africans. They exhibit an irrational (to me) stoicism bordering on optimism. Blind hope, perhaps. They endure the most outrageous behavior by police and other government officials, a near impossible economy, and for some, poverty due to the inflation. Godwin provides some insight.

He also discusses the politics, and Mugabe's actions against the opposition. Godwin, I believe, is very well informed and even-handed. The picture he paints is tragic, discouraging, and suggest that the end may be a lot closer than many of us think.

It's well written and strongly recommended to anyone desiring to understand Zim.

When a Crocodile Eats the Sun. Just finished it
and can say it is a great book.

I'm reading it now, and it is heartbreaking.

According to a recent BBC report, there is a letter currently circulating among the NGO's in Zim suggesting that the country can't hold together for another six months. That wouldn't surprise anyone who has watched the events in that benighted country for long.

It can bring a tear,promise

This is truly a book anyone interested in southern africa should read. However, i would highly suggest that one first reads Mukiwa: A white Boy in Africa first. Mukiwa is the stepping stone onto the river of emotion as it tells the tale of Godwin growing up in Rhodesia and then joining the forces and then into ealry adulthood. I think I enjoyed, if that is the correct word, A Crocodile... much more knowing the formative years.

Wow - just finished it. It is an eye opener for those of use living the fat and satisfied life in the US. I recommend this to anyone interested in Zimbabwe and what is happening to that once fine nation.

Very good book, extremely readable. For those that are not familiar with the free fall in Zimbabwe over the last ten years, it puts the problems in perspective in a very personal way.

Two outstanding books about the Zimbabwe land invasions and the agony of Zimbabwe:

Beyond Tears
African Tears

Both by Catherine Buckle

Growing up in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe
Don't let's Go to the dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller.

Fuller's chronicle of her friendship with"K", a white Rhodesian war veteran and the scars left by the war are found in Scribbling the Cat, travels with an African Soldier.

I cannot recommend these books enough to you.
Makes you really appreciate what these people have suffered.

I have a copy. Wonderful book.