Wilbur Smith | On Leopard Rock
It is now a few years since Wilbur Smith left us at the grand old age of 88. During his lengthy career, he wrote 49 books that have sold to date over 140 million copies worldwide; what would I do for that kind of legacy? Wilbur’s first book, When the Lion Feeds, came out a year before I was born! It was a staging point for Wilbur Smith to catapult his version of Africa to the mainstream. At first, Wilbur was only successful with the UK market, but as his books gripped young readers, his fame spread across the pond, and he became a best seller in the US and worldwide.
On Leopard Rock is a candid and revealing autobiography of what we now recognize as one of the modern greats. While he may not have been hailed as a literary genius alongside Ernest Hemingway, Wilbur Smith’s impact on literature is undeniable. He pioneered the concept of the ‘airport’ or ‘beach’ book—a companion we take on vacation to read by the pool. His stories are populated with captivating characters in exotic locales that exist only in our dreams.
Wilbur Smith’s first published book, When the Lion Feeds, was based on his upbringing. The two brothers’ names were a tribute to Wilbur’s grandfather, a Rhodesian maverick who lived in the bush, shooting lions and elephants when that was fashionable.
Wilbur tells the story of his upbringing in the bush, which inspired most of his books.
On Leopard Rock is an excellent insight into an author of Wilbur Smith’s fame. He lived his life large, traveled, and enjoyed the money he made from his books. He was the epitome of an African hunter; the ones we see in the old Tarzan movies. Wilbur walked the walk and talked the talk. He was a big game hunter and avid fisherman, traveling the world to find the best and most remote fishing haunts. He loved to travel throughout his life; on Leopard Rock, you get the feeling he was always restless and on the move, looking for new adventures at every corner. Although he was not a great sportsman, he spent a lot of time sailing and diving before even that was fashionable.
On Leopard Rock gives the impression that Wilbur Smith lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed every moment. The book covers the majority of his writing career, showing a caring man who loved his characters as much as he loved Africa.
I have lived in Africa since the late 1990s. Throughout this time, I can honestly say I am surprised every day. The place is contrary and frustrating, and most things try to kill you. However, it just gets under your skin. Once the African bug bites you, it is hard to leave, and when you do, all you can think of is when you will return.
Wilbur Smith brings his love of writing and Africa out in this autobiography, which is well worth reading.
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Mark Dawson | The Vault
James A. Ross | Hunting Teddy Roosevelt
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The Sahara Legacy | Ernest Dempsey
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Petter Rimmer- Echoes From the Past
Top Tips for an African Safari and Beach Holiday
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The Naming of Kenya-How and Why!
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