Rhodesian Doll Hunt: A Backpack, a Doll, and Genetic Espionage in Africa

A Rhodesian Colonel, the leader of an American revolutionary group, a renowned scientist, and a Bushman Elder in the Okavango, all want possession of a set of African nesting dolls. In 1979, while riots erupt in Liberia, apartheid plagues South Africa, and Ian Smith tries to preserve minority rule in Rhodesia, a young scientist and his lifelong friend decide it's a good time to backpack around Africa. They visit a medical research center in Liberia and agree to do a favor for a scientist who has developed a technology that will eradicate malaria. The naive wanderers are unwittingly drawn into a genetic espionage scheme that aims to change the course of the Rhodesian Bush War. In a story of unsolicited peril, elusive love, and a perverse use of science, their romp darkens as historic events, caustic hearts, and bouts of cold-blooded self-examination cause them to scrutinize science, religion, race, love, and whether the Beatles mirror the Holy Trinity. *** "An endlessly riveting, sometimes terrifying adventure from start to finish. You'll be inspired to take internet dives into the history that surrounds the book, which you probably don't know much about, and probably would have been too lighthearted to experience yourself anyway. The prose is convivial and frankly a delight to read. I was reminded of the late Anthony Bourdain and M*A*S*H*." —LILLI STEIN, Actress in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Blacklist, EVIL— "C.L. Manning tells a captivating story of mystery and adventure, or should I say misadventure? He takes you on a journey filled with intrigue, suspense, and surprising twists. Couldn't put it down—I desperately wanted to know what was in the dolls." —JUDY LUCA, bestselling author and founder of Law of Attraction and Vibration—