First Footsteps in East Africa Paperback – 13 Dec. 2012

Having been over twenty years looking for Burton's writings on exploration I found myself in possession of volume two having not yet read volume one. I decided to read the appendices and found them so interesting that I was unable to resist the main text. This volume commences during his perilous stay in Harrar, then describes the precipitous journey back to the coast. A classic "ripping yarn", as Burton feared pursuit and ambush instigated by the Amir. Woven into this story are Burton's careful and considered observations of all he came across, making this also a unique work of anthropology and history. The style is concise, understated and very readable. I look forward to volume one with great expectation.M.M. 28 Jan. 2001

In 1854-1855 Richard Burton walked inland from Zaila (Zeila) in what is now Somaliland, to visit the forbidden city of Harar. This is a detailed, diary-based, account of this trip.(incidentally, Lieutenant Speke, who a year later went with - and fell out with - Burton to discover Lake Victoria, started out in 1854 to visit the unknown Nogal Valley - but failed).I found it fascinating, and it shows both Burton's courage and his attention to detail. Lots of fodder for historians, and a cracking tale to boot.Plus it's free - what more can we wish for? Long live the kindle!

A very detailed account of Burtons trek into the northern part of East Africa, but lacks structure as it is purely a daily diary, describing in great detail and with endless references his travels; I don't think it is a straight read, but more a useful tool for the researcher.It clearly shows Burton's great resolve to achieve his aims, and his strong personality is evident.