American Review of Canadian Studies
"Its attention to detail . . . distinguishes this study and elevates it above all the earlier studies."

Canadian Literature
"The scope of the book is certainly impressive, and it contributes a great deal to current studies of Laurence."

Canadian Book Review Annual
"Sparrow is an informed, unostentatious explorer . . . A much needed study, admirably accomplished."

Book Description
Margaret Laurence is best known for her fiction set in Canada. Less well known is the work that resulted from the years she spent in Africa. Northern Somaliland in particular stimulated the deep understanding of human nature that permeates Laurence's subsequent work. Fiona Sparrow's in-depth study examines the foundations of Laurence's African writing, as well as Laurence's personal experiences in West Africa.

About the Author
Fiona Sparrow has traveled widely in West and Central Africa between studies at Oxford and the University of Toronto. She currently resides in Zagreb, Croatia.