The Armchair Traveler's Club discussion

What do you think of our emerging author selection so far?

I'm a couple of chapters into this one and so far I'm loving it. It's a look into real life in Mali and I've been touched by the kindness that the author experiences in village life.

It is also interesting to read about the caste system and the clash between conservative or liberal values. Amadou's father's liberal values meant that he was allowed to play music even though he wasn't from the griot class.

Some of the traditional instruments of Mali - really makes me want to go and see someone play the Kora - it's so beautiful!

http://www.spotonmalimusic.org/instru...

Finished this today. A simple report of a life well lived. I enjoyed hearing about Malian culture through the author's experiences.

This is more like a diary than literature, but it sure did make me want to go to Mali!

One of their most famous songs:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fxL-...

I love hearing about the tradition of the griots.

Also it was interesting to hear about the wedding combining the Christian & Muslim elements. I wonder if one would still
see that level of cooperation these days?