The Chattering Wagtails of Mikuyu Prison (African Writers Series) (Paperback)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Don't read this because Mapanje was detained, another human rights victim. Read it because he made poetry out of the experience- sardonic, inventive, lyrical testimonies to a generous and enduring spirit.”–Poetry Review

Product Description

The collection reveals Mapanje's initial reaction to the banning of his last volume in Malawi and his subsequent imprisonment in Mikuyu Prison, and includes poems written since his release and exile from his native land.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 99 pages
• Publisher: Heinemann (September 7, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0435911988
• ISBN-13: 978-0435911980
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.1 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #2,587,374 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Raw African Poetry, May 2, 2000

By A Customer

A fantastic collection of poetry from Jack Mapanje arguably Malawis finest poet. The poems are vividly descriptive echoeing Mapanjes thoughts and feelings during his time as a political prisoner under (the ex-Malawian president) Bandas regime. He manages to evoke feelings of hatred and disgust at the treatment of the prisoners as the reader shivers at descriptions of weavel filled bowls of rice and feelings of hope as he receives a postcard from Holland. I would thoroughly recommend this collection of poetry to anyone with an interest in human rights.