This autobiography traces Amadou's early years in Mali, first accepting his blindness, then adapting, to finding a source of joy in music and playing alongside some of the country's leading musicians. On meeting Mariam at an institute for the blind in Bamako, he discovers they share a passion for music and for life, they fall in love and begin their career as a duo in search of an international stage. Translated from the French by Ann Wright. 176pp, UK. ROUTE PUBLISHING.

The English edition of the critically acclaimed account of Malian musicians and culture, written by a fellow musician who spent seven months in Bamako playing guitar with Djelimady Tounkara, formerly of Malis legendary Super Rail Band. B/w ill, maps, glos, refs, index, viii, 256pp, UK. SERPENT'S TAIL, 1566397588