48 pages • 1 hour read
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294
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Kenya • 1930s
1942
Adult
14+ years
1140L
West with the Night by Beryl Markham chronicles her adventures growing up in Kenya among indigenous communities, learning to hunt and train racehorses, and eventually becoming an aviation pioneer. Her captivating journey includes searching for downed pilots, training horses, and flying solo across the Atlantic, crash-landing in Canada in 1936. The text reflects colonialist biases and includes references to suicide and animal attacks.
Adventurous
Contemplative
Inspirational
Nostalgic
Serene
46,730 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Reviewers widely praise Beryl Markham's West with the Night for its lyrical prose and vivid depiction of early 20th-century Africa and aviation. Readers admire her adventurous spirit and storytelling. Criticisms include perceived embellishments in her accounts and occasional disjointed narrative flow. Overall, it's considered a compelling memoir blending adventure with introspection.
Readers who enjoy West with the Night by Beryl Markham relish adventure memoirs and historical narratives. Comparable to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's Wind, Sand and Stars and Ernest Hemingway's A Moveable Feast, this book appeals to those fascinated by early aviation, African landscapes, and pioneering spirits.
46,730 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Charles Clutterbuck
Markham’s father, whose passion for horse racing influences her upbringing. He supports her independence and fosters her adventurous spirit by enabling her to integrate with the local Kenyan population.
Tom Black
A Royal Air Force pilot who introduces Markham to flying. He is depicted as an encouraging mentor who also cares for her safety, influencing her aviation career.
Kibii/Arab Ruta
A Nandi Murani and childhood playmate of Markham who later becomes her trusted co-worker and chief mechanic in her flying endeavors. He exemplifies loyalty and friendship.
Paddy
A quasi-tame lion on the Elkington estate who attacks Markham when she is a child, highlighting the dangers present in her Kenyan upbringing.
Buller
A loyal half-sheep dog, half-bull terrier who accompanies Markham on hunts. He exemplifies loyalty and courage during encounters with wildlife.
Pegasus
A foal delivered and cared for by Markham, gifted to her by her father. Pegasus symbolizes her transition to independence as a horse trainer.
Wise Child
A young filly trained by Markham who unexpectedly wins a crucial horse race, showcasing Markham's skills and bringing her acclaim.
294
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Kenya • 1930s
1942
Adult
14+ years
1140L
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