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Shaasha Barta: The Book of the 41 Virtues

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While this book is like a letter from a loving elder to young Black men, it is not just for young people. The author has an extensive knowledge of various ancient warrior cultures in different countries in Africa, which comes through in the introduction, the principles, and the quotations. There are wonderful, brief stories that illustrate the principles - taken from discussions between griots and young warriors, kings and their subjects, elders, fathers and sons. The black and white photographs of young warriors are beautiful, and the poetry beside each picture creates an almost spiritual communication - it is written as though they are speaking to you, and you feel it! The 41 virtues represent values that are the true foundation of civilization - respect, integrity, honor, loyalty.
When you buy this book, be prepared to end up with a worn copy - people will want to borrow it, read and re-read it.
There is a portion of poetry next to a photograph of a handsome young man, a warrior, standing on the plain. He asks - "Do you remember the open plain....Where men were warriors and warriors men...Do you my friend remember?" The Shaasha Barta will take us back to a time of dignity, heroism, self-respect and loyalty. This book helps us to remember.