The Splendor and Chaos of Africa: A Memoir

by Cathy L. Patrenos

Fresh out of nursing school and craving something beyond the ordinary, Cathy L. Patrenos sold everything she owned and set off for Africa in 1974. What began as a thirty-day safari turned into a yearlong adventure that would reshape her understanding of the world and herself.

Traveling in an old British army truck with a group of strangers, Cathy forged friendships, faced hardship and, unexpectedly, found love along the dusty roads. From Egypt’s ancient wonders to South Africa’s stark apartheid reality, the journey took her through breathtaking landscapes and turbulent political times.

Through deserts, danger and moments of soul-stirring beauty, Cathy’s spirit and sense of humor carried her forward. Told with honesty and wit, THE SPLENDOR AND CHAOS OF AFRICA is a heartful memoir of an unforgettable adventure at a time when travel meant total surrender to the unknown.

342 pages, Paperback

Published April 15, 2025

Reviews

[Carol Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cathy Patrenos’s The Splendor and Chaos of Africa is a lively memoir that transports readers back to Cathy’s adventurous journeys across Africa in the 1970s. Written with warmth, wit, and a keen eye for detail, the book captures both the breathtaking beauty of the continent and the unpredictable chaos that comes with traveling through it.
Patrenos takes us along for the ride—quite literally—through canvassed-topped trucks, bumpy dirt roads, and nights spent under the stars in tents. Her playful and humorous tone makes the challenges of travel—dust, delays, and the occasional discomfort—feel like part of the fun rather than burdens. Along the way, she introduces readers to an eclectic cast of fellow travelers and locals, whose quirks and kindnesses bring extra charm to her journey.
What stands out most is Patrenos’s ability to balance awe and amusement. She describes the thrill of seeing wild African animals in their natural habitat, while also painting lighthearted portraits of cultural encounters that are both respectful and entertaining. The book offers not only a window into the diverse landscapes and traditions of Africa, but also a celebration of the camaraderie and curiosity that define true adventure.
The Splendor and Chaos of Africa is more than a travelogue—it’s a joyful time capsule of youthful exploration, brimming with humor, honesty, and appreciation for the world’s wonders. Readers who enjoy tales of adventure, cultural discovery, and the irresistible unpredictability of travel will truly enjoy this memoir.

[Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading, this aptly titled memoir, “The Splendor and Chaos of Africa.” The author transports us back to the early 70’s when she was in her early 20’s experiencing a life altering year long journey through the continent of Africa filled with both splendor and chaos. Her honest portrayal of this amazing trek describing her keen observations of those she traveled with, her often beautiful and not so beautiful surroundings and her display of wit and humor is endearing and captivating. Her shared self-reflections regarding how these many diverse sights and experiences affected her are remarkable and thought provoking. This book definitely captures a time and place worth visiting and remembering and it was truly fun to join her on this journey. Highly Recommend!

[Vicky Runquist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great title and it does explore the splendor and chaos of Africa. A memoir of a young woman's year long journey around the continent of Africa. It is set in the 1970s and written in present tense form so you feel that you are on the journey with her. From the beautiful beaches to the scorching desert, it is all there. She does a wonderful job of describing things, retelling local stories and myths, with some humour and romance thrown in too. I highly recommend this book.

[Steve Roth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating memoir by author Cathy Patrenos. From start to finish, it's an enjoyable journey across Africa that takes the reader on a wonderful ride, joining the author's adventures, and misadventures, with vivid descriptions and humorous stories. While I have never been to Africa myself, I feel closer to this special place after reading this novel. I was introduced to this author's work through a friend. I'll most certainly be checking out her other works.