This is a comprehensive history but very readable. I wasn't sure to give it 4 or 5 stars because it is a very long book and drags at times. But it's the most insightful book I've read about the issues of colonialism, how it functioned (or didn't), and the effect at the time. The author takes the view of history from a more personal basis which makes it more understandable and there are some interesting characters that span several of the main timelines of Congo history. The Congo just has never had good governance as a country. Perhaps it's not possible given it's size and diversity and geographical challenges. Even now, Congo is still being plundered for its resources. Overall, very good book. Magistraal. Begrijp de wereldgeschiedenis en -economie een beetje beter. Veelzijdig qua onderwerpen: geschiedenis, muziek, politiek, cultuur. Maar ook qua schrijfstijl: geschreven bronnen uit archieven, quotes uit interviews, eigen waarnemingen, etc. De saaiste materie (Congolese politiek heeft niet mijn bijzondere interesse...) lekker leesbaar. Smaakt absoluut naar meer werk van David Van Reybroeck.
What do You think about Kongo (2010)?
A must read for everyone willing to understand the african continent.
—ovi
prachtige geschiedvertelling. Kan het beter, nauwelijks.
—Jason
