The Katanga Crisis of Congo in the 1960s is Riveting as a Fiction Thriller

Knowledge of world history has never been more essential in reminding us of the atrocities of war and territorial flexing than in the present times where polarizing issues cause divisive stands, sometimes volatile and violent. In his book, Norman W. Kelley’s “The Katanga: American Mercenaries in the African Congo” showcases the events leading to and the aftermath of an African province wanting independence.

The Katanga is rooted in Africa during the 1960s independence period of then-Zaire-now-Congo, and the ultimate failure of an attempt for an alternative to colonialism or despotism. Based on historical facts, Norman Kelley weaves a tale of two young Americans who signed up to be mercenaries for the Katanga, a resource-mine of a province in the southern part of Congo who wanted its own independence when Belgium granted full independence and autonomy to the country.

It is part adventure, part political thriller that keeps a suspenseful tone throughout the book. While the plot is not a secret, the characters’ journey as they grow into respected strategists that soon morphed into political and military roles in the ongoing crisis is filled with intrigue and self-introspection.

The author also paints a country that is beautiful and rich in resources, from its people to copper mining. With his background in foreign management consulting, Norman Kelley highlights the effects of international meddling into an independent country’s politics and governance.

“The Katanga: American Mercenaries in the African Congo” will be displayed in the upcoming Word on the Street, the biggest literary events in Canada this year on June 9 in Saskatoon, September 14 in Halifax, on September 21 in Lethbridge, and lastly on September 22 in Toronto. Grab a copy of his books at Amazon and your favorite online book retailers.
 

About the Author

Norman Kelley has foreign management consulting experience in both Central Africa (Malawi) working on World Bank projects and leading a U.S. Government management team to Saudi Arabia. His career spans 30 years of experience in governmental affairs in California government and in Alaska. He and his wife Patricia live in Oceanside, California where he writes and builds model ships.

 

Contact Information

Rey Harris

Project Manager

Maple Leaf Publishing Inc.

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