Africa’s Big 5 Series: #1
Manzovo-Place of the Elephants
An ode to Africa and its magnificent wildlife, Gary Albyn's epical poem Manzovo—Place of the Elephants chronicles the sweeping journey of a matriarch and her herd as they traverse the timeless plains of a wild and unforgiving continent.
Through 110 evocative verses, Albyn captures the primal rhythm of the African bush and the herd's struggle for survival. The elephants endure brushes with predators, farmers, and poachers, all while encountering the tapestry of Africa's natural bounty and unique cultures. Richly illustrated by the late Craig Bone, Manzovo is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Africa and a lyrical call to preserve its delicate, wild heart.
Reviews
“Gary Albyn takes an honored place in the list of southern Africa’s poets and writers. It is my fervent hope that the rulers of Zimbabwe will read this poem out aloud in the National Assembly, and in the schools, so that it will touch the hearts and minds of people and bring about a transition of thought and deed and a realization that we are all children, mankind and animal, of the Great Continent of Africa.”
Dr Ian Player—Knight in the Order of the Golden Ark, Best-Selling Author “Rich with fact, metaphor and lessons, Gary Albyn stirs his audience with this masterfully presented tale. His evocatively crafted delivery is not only entertaining but also spiritually moving.”
Barbara Wiseman—International President, Lawrence Anthony Earth Organization“In that great oral tradition of a bygone era, Gary Albyn entertains his audiences with a sweeping, spellbinding delivery.”
Kingsley Holgate—International Explorer, Adventurer, Author, Humanitarian“In the winter of 2020, Gary Albyn delivered his epical poem Manzovo at my bookstore. Once his presentation began, the audience was literally held spellbound from beginning to end. To say he was reciting a poem would be an understatement. Apart from being recounted with passion and skill, his performance was steeped with a profound pathos for Africa’s majestic elephants. I am being completely honest when I say that I have never witnessed anything quite like it. Even a year after the event, his presentation remains a frequent topic of conversation amongst my customers.”
William Graney—Author & Bookstore Owner “Since its release in 2009, Gary Albyn’s masterfully written, majestically presented opus continues to garner worldwide acclaim. As entertaining as it is thought-provoking, the listener is guaranteed to experience a visceral medley of emotions. It’s a timely tribute to the magnificence of Africa’s elephants.”
Bruce Spargo—CEO & Film Producer: Definitive Films