But as is always the case, certain aspects of the book work better than others. Bay writes that her goal is to speak to both African studies non-specialists and specialists by balancing accuracy with accessibility. And the book, is indeed, written in an accessible way. I was rather surprised, however, that Bay did not speak more directly to much of the specialist literature that focuses on the same topics and themes that are of concern in her book. Equally problematic is the way Bay fails to lead the reader through the thicket of names used in the text.
Individuals are often unconnected to readily identifiable events or dates.
This often leaves the reader, whether non-specialist or specialist, confused about the chronological development of certain events. This lack of a sense of linear progression is especially problematic in the first chapter and in the middle chapters. The first chapter, for example, moves back and forth through time, giving one an ahistorical sense about the character of the monarchy. The middle chapters are organized by kingly reigns, but within each chapter unexpected references are made to both previous and later periods. This leaves the reader wondering exactly what period is being discussed.