I Dreamed of Africa

I Dreamed of Africa by Kuki Gallmann is a memoir that chronicles the author’s life in Kenya, her deep connection to the African landscape, and her personal journey of love, loss, and resilience. The book tells the story of Gallmann’s move from Italy to Kenya in the 1970s, where she and her family sought to build a life on a vast estate in the Kenyan wilderness. It is an intimate account of her experiences as an outsider in Africa and her evolving relationship with the land, wildlife, and people.

Gallmann’s memoir beautifully captures the wonders and challenges of life in the African bush, as she becomes more deeply immersed in the culture and environment of Kenya. She recounts her adventures, encounters with wildlife, and the sometimes harsh realities of living in a remote, untamed place. Through her narrative, Gallmann reflects on the transformative power of Africa, the enduring spirit of its people, and the lessons she learned from the natural world.

The book also deals with tragedy, particularly the loss of her beloved husband, Paolo, and the profound effect it had on her. I Dreamed of Africa is a story of grief and healing, offering a powerful and evocative portrayal of the African landscape and the personal and emotional journey of an individual who fell deeply in love with the continent. The memoir was later adapted into a film, bringing Gallmann’s inspiring story to a wider audience.