Glenn W. Lawrence (Author of Black Bees and Unanswered Prayers)

Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
"Africa is a thousand situations, varied, distinct, even contradictory . . . Because everything depends on where and when." I start with that quote (located near the very end of this incredible book) to highlight my initial impressions. This book is ...more
Dec 31, 2025 02:11PM · like · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
"Africa is a thousand situations, varied, distinct, even contradictory . . . Because everything depends on where and when." I start with that quote (located near the very end of this incredible book) to highlight my initial impressions. This book is ...more
Dec 31, 2025 01:52PM · like · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Glenn Lawrence is on page 298 of 325 of The Shadow of the Sun The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński progress:	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Dec 31, 2025 09:58AM · like · see status · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Glenn Lawrence wants to read A Path Appears: Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity by Nicholas D. Kristof (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Dec 16, 2025 03:03PM · like · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of A Path Appears by Nicholas D. Kristof. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — A Path Appears by Nicholas D. Kristof <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing Chasing Chaos: My Decade In and Out of Humanitarian Aid by Jessica Alexander (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
I'm not entirely certain where to start with this review. I gave it 5 stars because that is the limit. It really deserves more in my mind. There is so much I could, and want, to say. I guess I'll begin by saying this is one of the best books I have r ...more
Dec 16, 2025 01:02PM · like · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of Chasing Chaos by Jessica Alexander. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — Chasing Chaos by Jessica Alexander <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Glenn Lawrence is currently reading 100 Best Beatles Songs: A Passionate Fan's Guide by Stephen J. Spignesi	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Dec 04, 2025 01:47PM · like
Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing I'm a Believer: My Life of Monkees, Music, and Madness by micky-dolenz	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Earlier this year I decided to take a trip down "memory lane" and revisit one of my favorite childhood bands... The Monkees. Having been born in 1967 I missed the real heights of their popularity but their music became impressed on me largely through ...more
Dec 03, 2025 04:53PM · like · see review
Glenn Lawrence rated a book really liked it Determinants of Economic Growth: A Cross-Country Empirical Study (Lionel Robbins Lectures) by Robert J. Barro	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
This book is quite technical. In fact, it reads much like a traditional academic paper. I don't write that as a complaint. It's not. It is simply a statement of fact for anyone who might by taking a look at this review in advance of reading the book ...more
Nov 23, 2025 07:43PM · like · see review
Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing Murdering Poverty: How to fix aid by Arrey Elvis Ntui	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
As the title clearly indicates this is certainly a "niche" book that deals with a very specific subject... development aid and poverty alleviation. (I simply highlight that for anyone who might be presently reading this review.) Having said that, I w ...more
Nov 21, 2025 07:05AM · like · see review
Glenn Lawrence is currently reading Determinants of Economic Growth: A Cross-Country Empirical Study (Lionel Robbins Lectures) by Robert J. Barro	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Nov 17, 2025 02:59PM · like

Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing

The Shadow of the Sun
by Ryszard Kapuściński

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

"Africa is a thousand situations, varied, distinct, even contradictory . . . Because everything depends on where and when."

I start with that quote (located near the very end of this incredible book) to highlight my initial impressions. This book is "Africa is a thousand situations, varied, distinct, even contradictory . . . Because everything depends on where and when."

I start with that quote (located near the very end of this incredible book) to highlight my initial impressions. This book is an UNBELIEVABLE collection of "snapshots" of Africa, recorded in very specific places at very specific times. I do not say that to minimize the book at all. That would be an impossible task given the book's sweeping and powerful narrative and insights. Rather, it is simply to remind us that much of life is akin to a highly busy traffic intersection. Take a photo today and compare it to a photo taken yesterday. There will certainly be many general similarities. But there will also be many subtle but crucial differences.

Beginning in 1957 (I believe) the author would spend the better of part of the next 4 decades working and writing as a journalist in various parts of Africa. His book provides incredible insight into that world and privileges us with valuable general oversights into modern Africa. At the same time, one also recognizes that the sands of time have continued to blow and much has also changed. To that end, the book was a powerful catalyst for further reading and research as I sought to discover how certain places and events had indeed changed since the time of his visits. The key to this book is to understand that Africa is a large continent comprised of many countries and even more numerous distinct people groups. Defining them depends on, as the author himself writes, recognizing the "where and when." And within that understanding Kapuściński has written one of the most delightful and engaging books I have read to date on Africa.

In conclusion, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book. It is certainly one of the best books I have read in 2025 (originally published in 2001). I learned much as a casual "outside" observer to Africa and was personally challenged as well to rethink a few of my own preexisting ideologies regarding the continent. It is a great tool for those seeking to learn more about the continent, especially during the turbulent period of rising independence in the 60s and 70s. Beyond that, it is a breath-taking and fascinating story of the true accounts and adventures the author encountered during his times there. Great book! ...more

Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing

The Shadow of the Sun
by Ryszard Kapuściński

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

"Africa is a thousand situations, varied, distinct, even contradictory . . . Because everything depends on where and when."

I start with that quote (located near the very end of this incredible book) to highlight my initial impressions. This book is "Africa is a thousand situations, varied, distinct, even contradictory . . . Because everything depends on where and when."

I start with that quote (located near the very end of this incredible book) to highlight my initial impressions. This book is an UNBELIEVABLE collection of "snapshots" of Africa, recorded in very specific places at very specific times. I do not say that to minimize the book at all. That would be an impossible task given the book's sweeping and powerful narrative and insights. Rather, it is simply to remind us that much of life is akin to a highly busy traffic intersection. Take a photo today and compare it to a photo taken yesterday. There will certainly be many general similarities. But there will also be many subtle but crucial differences.

Beginning in 1957 (I believe) the author would spend the better of part of the next 4 decades working and writing as a journalist in various parts of Africa. His book provides incredible insight into that world and privileges us with valuable general oversights into modern Africa. At the same time, one also recognizes that the sands of time have continued to blow and much has also changed. To that end, the book was a powerful catalyst for further reading and research as I sought to discover how certain places and events had indeed changed since the time of his visits. The key to this book is to understand that Africa is a large continent comprised of many countries and even more numerous distinct people groups. Defining them depends on, as the author himself writes, recognizing the "where and when." And within that understanding Kapuściński has written one of the most delightful and engaging books I have read to date on Africa.

In conclusion, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book. It is certainly one of the best books I have read in 2025 (originally published in 2001). I learned much as a casual "outside" observer to Africa and was personally challenged as well to rethink a few of my own preexisting ideologies regarding the continent. It is a great tool for those seeking to learn more about the continent, especially during the turbulent period of rising independence in the 60s and 70s. Beyond that, it is a breath-taking and fascinating story of the true accounts and adventures the author encountered during his times there. Great book! ...more

Glenn Lawrence is on page 298 of 325 of The Shadow of the Sun

The Shadow of the Sun
by Ryszard Kapuściński

progress:

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Glenn Lawrence wants to read

A Path Appears: Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity
by Nicholas D. Kristof (Goodreads Author)

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing

Chasing Chaos: My Decade In and Out of Humanitarian Aid
by Jessica Alexander (Goodreads Author)

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

I'm not entirely certain where to start with this review. I gave it 5 stars because that is the limit. It really deserves more in my mind. There is so much I could, and want, to say. I guess I'll begin by saying this is one of the best books I have r I'm not entirely certain where to start with this review. I gave it 5 stars because that is the limit. It really deserves more in my mind. There is so much I could, and want, to say. I guess I'll begin by saying this is one of the best books I have read in a number of years. I would easily place it on the short list of my all-time favorites!!! On a personal level I found the book to be so many things... encouraging, challenging, inspiring, informative, captivating. Almost every blank page has been covered with my own notes and thoughts as I worked my way through this incredible book. I am so glad I picked it up and I am already actively making plans to read it again.

At a high level, it is a personal and honest look at the author's experiences as part of the humanitarian aid sector during some of the most turbulent events of recent decades (Rwanda, Darfur, Sierra Leone, Haiti, etc.). In the book she shares both her own personal story as well as the invaluable and indispensable lessons she gleaned along the way. The book is a very honest and straightforward assessment of both the successes and failings of the aid "industry," providing a holistic look at the various nuances and challenges that are part and parcel to global aid efforts. While I have never served in the field (I have spent a number of years working remotely as a UN Volunteer), much of her journey reminds me of my own time as a foreign missionary for the Church. She is honest, open, and transparent throughout the book, allowing the reader to understand and appreciate her sacrifice and her struggles (as well as those of the people in the various places in which she served). Granted, it is just one perspective on global aid, but I found it especially pertinent during this current season of my life as I look to find avenues of service in the world of development aid.

Having said all that, even if you have no personal or professional interest in the aid industry or humanitarian efforts, the story is captivating and provides great perspective on the world outside our window. Highly recommend it!!! ...more

Glenn Lawrence is currently reading

100 Best Beatles Songs by Stephen J. Spignesi

100 Best Beatles Songs: A Passionate Fan's Guide
by Stephen J. Spignesi

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing

I'm a Believer: My Life of Monkees, Music, and Madness
by micky-dolenz

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Earlier this year I decided to take a trip down "memory lane" and revisit one of my favorite childhood bands... The Monkees. Having been born in 1967 I missed the real heights of their popularity but their music became impressed on me largely through ...more

Glenn Lawrence rated a book really liked it

Determinants of Economic Growth by Robert J. Barro

Determinants of Economic Growth: A Cross-Country Empirical Study (Lionel Robbins Lectures)
by Robert J. Barro

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

This book is quite technical. In fact, it reads much like a traditional academic paper. I don't write that as a complaint. It's not. It is simply a statement of fact for anyone who might by taking a look at this review in advance of reading the book ...more

Glenn Lawrence rated a book it was amazing

Murdering Poverty: How to fix aid
by Arrey Elvis Ntui

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

As the title clearly indicates this is certainly a "niche" book that deals with a very specific subject... development aid and poverty alleviation. (I simply highlight that for anyone who might be presently reading this review.) Having said that, I w ...more

Glenn Lawrence is currently reading

Determinants of Economic Growth: A Cross-Country Empirical Study (Lionel Robbins Lectures)
by Robert J. Barro

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Glenn’s Year In Books

Glenn W. Lawrence’s Followers (3)

Glenn’s Bookshelves

Glenn’s Friends (107)

Glenn W. Lawrence

Goodreads Author

24 posts
Glenn W. Lawrence's Blog

Tragedy Is Not The End

Combine Editions
Glenn W. Lawrence’s books

Glenn is Currently Reading

rss
Glenn’s Recent Updates

See a Problem?

Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński

See a Problem?

Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński

See a Problem?

Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński

See a Problem?

Preview — A Path Appears by Nicholas D. Kristof

See a Problem?

Preview — Chasing Chaos by Jessica Alexander

Glenn’s Friend Comments

Glenn W. Lawrence’s Followers (3)

Glenn W. Lawrence

Goodreads Author

rssGlenn’s Recent Updates

See a Problem?

Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński

See a Problem?

Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński

See a Problem?

Preview — The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński

See a Problem?

Preview — A Path Appears by Nicholas D. Kristof

See a Problem?

Preview — Chasing Chaos by Jessica Alexander

rss
Glenn’s Recent Updates