Best known for her fiction set in Canada, Margaret Laurence also has a body of work that resulted from the years she spent in Africa. Northern Somaliland in particular stimulated the deep understanding of human nature that permeates Laurence's subsequent work. Fiona Sparrow's in-depth study examines the foundations of Laurence's African writing, as well as Laurence's personal experiences in West Africa.

Fiona Sparrow's profile page

Fiona Sparrow has traveled widely in West and Central Africa between studies at Oxford and the University of Toronto.

“The scope of the book is certainly impressive, and it contributes a great deal to current studies of Laurence.” —Canadian Literature

“Sparrow is an informed, unostentatious explorer . . . A much needed study, admirably accomplished.” —Canadian Book Review Annual

“Its attention to detail . . . distinguishes this study and elevates it above all the earlier studies.” —American Review of Canadian Studies

“An attractive and convincing narrative, memorable for both its content and for the grace with which Sparrow communicates her understanding of Laurence's African works as well as her warm appreciation of them.” —Literary Review of Canada