Haviland's Chum   By: Bertram Mitford (1855-1914)

Haviland's Chum by Bertram Mitford is a captivating novel that takes readers on an exciting journey through the African wilderness. Set against the backdrop of colonial Africa, the author skillfully weaves a tale filled with adventure, camaraderie, and love.

The story follows the protagonist, Haviland, a young explorer with a passion for the African wilderness. Haviland's character is well-developed, showcasing both his determination and vulnerability as he navigates through a series of life-changing events. The author's descriptive writing allows readers to vividly picture the landscapes and immerse themselves in the atmospheric African setting.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the enduring friendship between Haviland and his chum, a fellow adventurer. Their bond is heartwarming, and their shared experiences create a strong sense of camaraderie throughout the narrative. Readers will find themselves rooting for these characters as they face countless challenges together.

Mitford's storytelling is fast-paced and keeps readers engaged from the very first page. The plot twists and turns, filled with unexpected surprises that add depth and excitement to the story. The author's familiarity with the African landscape shines through, and it is evident that extensive research has been conducted to create an authentic and vivid portrayal of the region.

Moreover, Haviland's Chum explores themes such as love, loyalty, and the clash of cultures. The interactions between the European explorers and the native African communities are thought-provoking, shedding light on the complexities of colonialism during that era. Mitford does an excellent job of offering different perspectives without moralizing, allowing readers to reflect and form their own opinions.

While the novel's focus is primarily on adventure and exploration, the romantic subplot adds another layer of depth to the story. The blossoming relationship between Haviland and the strong-willed heroine is engaging and provides moments of tenderness amidst the thrilling escapades.

However, there are a few instances where the pacing slows down, particularly during certain descriptive passages. While these sections provide valuable background information, they may slightly detract from the overall tempo of the plot for readers seeking more action-packed scenes.

In conclusion, Haviland's Chum by Bertram Mitford is an enthralling adventure novel set in colonial Africa. With well-drawn characters, a compelling storyline, and vivid descriptions, the book offers readers an immersive journey into a bygone era. Fans of historical fiction and African landscapes will undoubtedly find this book a captivating read.

First Page:

For answer the other merely emitted a click, which might have conveyed contempt, disgust, defiance, or a little of all three. He was an African lad of about fifteen, straight and lithe and well formed, and his skin was of a rich copper brown. But there was a clean cut look about the set of his head, and an almost entire absence of negro development of nose and lips, which seemed to point to the fact that it was with no inferior race aboriginal to the dark continent that he owned nationality... Continue reading book >>