Ismailia By: Samuel White Baker (1821-1893)
I recently finished reading a captivating historical novel that transported me back in time to 19th century Egypt - Ismailia by Samuel White Baker. Set during the tumultuous period of the construction of the Suez Canal, Baker skillfully weaves a tale filled with adventure, romance, and political intrigue. The story follows the journey of our protagonist, who finds himself caught in the middle of the ambitious engineering project undertaken by the French, led by Ferdinand de Lesseps, and supported by the powerful Egyptian ruler Ismail Pasha. As the protagonist becomes involved in the construction of the canal, he becomes privy to the inner workings of the political landscape, dominated by European powers vying for control in the region. Baker's attention to detail is remarkable, as he describes the lush landscapes of Egypt, the bustling cities, and the harsh realities faced by the local population. Through his vivid descriptions, the author brings the historical setting to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a world far removed from our own. Moreover, Baker's characterization is another standout aspect of Ismailia. The protagonist is a complex and multi-faceted character, torn between his loyalty towards Egypt and his growing love for a French woman who is also caught up in the tumultuous political climate. Their romance is expertly portrayed, filled with longing, passion, and sacrifice. What sets this novel apart is its ability to subtly explore themes of colonization, nationalism, and the clash of cultures. Baker skillfully delves into the motivations and perspectives of each character, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding this historical event. Despite its historical setting, Ismailia remains a highly relevant and thought-provoking read. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of imperialism and the struggles faced by nations attempting to assert their autonomy. Through this exploration, Baker succeeds in creating a narrative that is not only entertaining but also provides valuable insights into the human condition. In conclusion, Ismailia is a captivating historical novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through 19th century Egypt. Samuel White Baker's masterful storytelling and attention to detail make this book a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and those seeking a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the past. First Page: ISMAILIA. A NARRATIVE OF THE EXPEDITION TO CENTRAL AFRICA FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE SLAVE TRADE ORGANIZED BY ISMAIL, KHEDIVE OF EGYPT. by SIR SAMUEL W. BAKER, PACHA, M.A., F.R.S., F.R.G.S., Major General of the Ottoman Empire, Member of the Orders of the Osmanie and the Medjidie, late Governor General of the Equatorial Nile Basin, Gold Medallist of the Royal Geographical Society, Grande Medaille d'Or de la Societe de Geographie de Paris, Honorary Member of the Geographical Societies of Paris, Berlin, Italy, and America, Author of "The Albert N'yanza Great Basin of the Nile," "The Nile Tributaries of Abyssinia," "Eight Years' Wanderings in Ceylon," "The Rifle and Hound in Ceylon," etc. etc Contents. Chap. I. Introductory II. English Party III. The Retreat IV. The Camp at Tewfikeeyah V. Exploration of the Old White Nile VI. The Start VII. Arrival at Gondokoro VIII. Official Annexation IX. New Enemies X. Destruction of the Shir Detachment XI. Spirit of Disaffection XII. Vessels Return to Khartoum XIII. Moral Results of the Hunt XIV. The Advance South XV. The Advance to Lobore XVI. Arrival at Patiko XVII. The March to Unyoro XVIII. March to Masindi XIX. Restoration of the Liberated Slaves XX... Continue reading book >>

Ismailia By: Samuel White Baker (1821-1893)

I recently finished reading a captivating historical novel that transported me back in time to 19th century Egypt - Ismailia by Samuel White Baker. Set during the tumultuous period of the construction of the Suez Canal, Baker skillfully weaves a tale filled with adventure, romance, and political intrigue.

The story follows the journey of our protagonist, who finds himself caught in the middle of the ambitious engineering project undertaken by the French, led by Ferdinand de Lesseps, and supported by the powerful Egyptian ruler Ismail Pasha. As the protagonist becomes involved in the construction of the canal, he becomes privy to the inner workings of the political landscape, dominated by European powers vying for control in the region.

Baker's attention to detail is remarkable, as he describes the lush landscapes of Egypt, the bustling cities, and the harsh realities faced by the local population. Through his vivid descriptions, the author brings the historical setting to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in a world far removed from our own.

Moreover, Baker's characterization is another standout aspect of Ismailia. The protagonist is a complex and multi-faceted character, torn between his loyalty towards Egypt and his growing love for a French woman who is also caught up in the tumultuous political climate. Their romance is expertly portrayed, filled with longing, passion, and sacrifice.

What sets this novel apart is its ability to subtly explore themes of colonization, nationalism, and the clash of cultures. Baker skillfully delves into the motivations and perspectives of each character, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding this historical event.

Despite its historical setting, Ismailia remains a highly relevant and thought-provoking read. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of imperialism and the struggles faced by nations attempting to assert their autonomy. Through this exploration, Baker succeeds in creating a narrative that is not only entertaining but also provides valuable insights into the human condition.

In conclusion, Ismailia is a captivating historical novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through 19th century Egypt. Samuel White Baker's masterful storytelling and attention to detail make this book a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and those seeking a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the past.

First Page:

ISMAILIA.

A NARRATIVE OF THE EXPEDITION TO CENTRAL AFRICA FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE SLAVE TRADE

ORGANIZED BY

ISMAIL,

KHEDIVE OF EGYPT.

by SIR SAMUEL W. BAKER, PACHA, M.A., F.R.S., F.R.G.S., Major General of the Ottoman Empire, Member of the Orders of the Osmanie and the Medjidie, late Governor General of the Equatorial Nile Basin, Gold Medallist of the Royal Geographical Society, Grande Medaille d'Or de la Societe de Geographie de Paris, Honorary Member of the Geographical Societies of Paris, Berlin, Italy, and America, Author of "The Albert N'yanza Great Basin of the Nile," "The Nile Tributaries of Abyssinia," "Eight Years' Wanderings in Ceylon," "The Rifle and Hound in Ceylon," etc. etc

Contents.

Chap.

I. Introductory

II. English Party

III. The Retreat

IV. The Camp at Tewfikeeyah

V. Exploration of the Old White Nile

VI. The Start

VII. Arrival at Gondokoro

VIII. Official Annexation

IX. New Enemies

X. Destruction of the Shir Detachment

XI. Spirit of Disaffection

XII. Vessels Return to Khartoum

XIII. Moral Results of the Hunt

XIV. The Advance South

XV. The Advance to Lobore

XVI. Arrival at Patiko

XVII. The March to Unyoro

XVIII. March to Masindi

XIX. Restoration of the Liberated Slaves

XX... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
History
Travel

eBook links
Wikipedia – Samuel White Baker
Wikipedia – Ismailia

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