Volunteers in the African Bush: Memoirs from Sierra Leone

The 25 authors of this book were volunteers in the first Peace Corps rural community development project in Africa: Sierra Leone, 1965-67. They are also the first group to tell a collective story of Peace Corps volunteers, anywhere. The Peace Corps was in its infancy then, and memories of John Kennedy were strong among the young volunteers. Sierra Leone was also in its infancy in the first few years after independence, before military coups and tribal warfare became common.



The authors forthrightly recount their feelings of loneliness and isolation, and their frightening experiences with secret societies and witchcraft, but their uniquely optimistic "can-do" American attitude brought most through a great life experience.



Editor David Read Barker tracked down his fellow volunteers, invited their contributions, and edited their moving first-person accounts. He is a Ph.D. anthropologist with many years of experience as managing editor of technical and professional periodicals. An avid sailor, he co-wrote his most recent book, The Black Sea, with his wife.



The reflections in this book have accomplished a high level of literary, cultural, and historic value and will be of cultural relevance not only to Americans but to Sierra Leoneans as well. It should be a "must read" for all aspiring volunteers venturing into Sierra Leone.

Bockari K. Stevens, Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the United States



Volunteers in the African Bush provides returned Peace Corps volunteers an opportunity to reflect on their experiences. It is a fascinating read, and it provides a vital new perspective on the lasting impact of Peace Corps service.

Chic Dambach, former President, National Peace Corps Association