David H. Rothman

This novel is a fast-paced Oliver Twistian rags-to-riches story set in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Unlike Western portrayals of the young computer genius (who inevitably achieves fame and ample venture capital), this novel has a twist: this teenage supergeek runs away to the capital city (Kinshasa) with dreams of a better, safer life — and instead ends up working under duress for a criminal racket. Lemba’s story about how technology can be both liberating and oppressive in show more corrupt societies offers a sober counterweight to Western techno-utopianism.

Written in a brisk style full of action and suspense, this story — and the violent actions described — can be a sometimes shocking read for U.S. audiences. The “happy ending” seems a little too forced for me — and I remain unconvinced that the road to success (and emotional recovery) for the brother and sister is as easy as presented here.

IN SUMMARY: It’s a quick & good read — with lots of incidents and dangerous escapes though it raises unsettling questions about how easily crime can exploit poverty in a society. show less