The African Queen

By: C. S. Forester

Narrated by: Michael Kitchen

Upon her brother's death, missionary Rose Sayer and Charles Allnutt, disreputable skipper of the African Queen, become allies as, marooned in German Central Africa during World War I, they fight their old launch downriver 'to strike a blow for England'.

©1935 C.S. Forester (P)2014 Audible, Inc.

Wonderful narration, disappointing ending

I liked this audiobook more many others up until the ending. The narration was wonderful. The ending was very disappointing. It was as if CS Forester just ran out of ideas and decided to stop writing. I was expecting much more.

The African Queen

Excellent story (better than movie, the movie was great....but the book is better).I was so enthralled I had to finish the story. Hours fly by when listening to an audiobook and this book is no different. I highly recommend this book. If you loved the movie you'll love the book. Thank you and Happy Reading/Listening.

narration

This is a great short story, impeccably read by Michael Kitchen. I wish he had narrated more books

Uncharted, yet familiar waters

"The African Queen" is an adventure set amidst the lush and treacherous terrain of Central Africa during WWI with at its core, the unlikely duo of Rose Sayer, a prim and proper Englishwoman, and Charlie Allnut, a rough and tumble Canadian mechanic.

Rose, mourning the loss of her missionary brother finds herself stranded after the German army destroys the mission. She then encounters Charlie, the captain of the African Queen, who arrives in his ramshackle boat to offer assistance. Initially skeptical of each other's motives, their shared plight ultimately forges an unlikely bond as they embark on a perilous journey down the Ulanga River.

The situational humor amidst moments of peril results in a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats while eliciting genuine laughter.The encounters with the opposing German forces add an extra layer of excitement to the story.

Unlike many works of fiction where misunderstandings drive the romantic tension, Forester opts for a refreshingly authentic depiction of two individuals from vastly different backgrounds finding common ground amidst adversity. Their gradual transition from wary companions to steadfast allies is both heartwarming and believable, making their journey all the more compelling.

While some may argue that the pacing of the novel is leisurely at times, it is precisely this measured approach that allows Forester to delve deep into the intricacies of his characters and their surroundings. Every setback and triumph feels earned, culminating in a satisfying and cathartic conclusion.

Readers familiar with Forester's work may even recognize a few characteristics of Horatio Hornblower in Rose.

In conclusion, "The African Queen" is a delightful romp through uncharted waters.

trip though spine of Africa

adventure love and story of sefl enlightenment once you set your mind to do it

and I thought the end of the movie was cliche

watched the movie recently and wanted to see how the book compared. as expected better character development but surprisingly anti climatic.

Rippinh yarn that has aged questionably

Fast moving and engaging story that was the basis of the film. Marred by retro racist language and some strange ideas about women on the authors’ part.

Super book version..

Seen movie million times! Good dialog & super description of surroundings. Great cultural depictions of indigenous people.

Touching, charming,

One of the best stores by Forester. Similar but very different flavor from Hornblower

African Queen much more than the movie.

Great story by one of the masters. The book is much more than the movie. makes my trip so much more enjoyable. The reader is one of my favorite actors. Foile's War.