Title
Flight of the Diamond Smugglers: A Tale of Pigeons, Obsession, and Greed Along Coastal South Africa,Used
Delivery time: 8-12 business days (International)
NPR Best Books of 2021 Unforgettable. . . . An outstanding adventure in its lyrical, utterly compelling, and heartbreaking investigations of the world of diamond smuggling. Aimee NezhukumatathilFor nearly eighty years, a huge portion of coastal South Africa was closed off to the public. With many of its pits now deemed overmined and abandoned, American journalist Matthew Gavin Frank sets out across the infamous Diamond Coast to investigate an illicit trade that supplies a global market. Immediately, he became intrigued by the ingenious methods used in facilitating smuggling particularly, the illegal act of sneaking carrier pigeons onto mine property, affixing diamonds to their feet, and sending them into the air.Entering Die Sperrgebiet (The Forbidden Zone) is like entering an eerie ghost town, but Frank is surprised by the number of people willingeven eagerto talk with him. Soon he meets Msizi, a young diamond digger, and his pigeon, Bartholomew, who helps him steal diamonds. Its a deadly game: pigeons are shot on sight by mine security, and Msizi knows of smugglers who have disappeared because of their crimes. For this, Msizi blames Mr. Lester, an evil talltale figure of mythic proportions.From the mining towns of Alexander Bay and Port Nolloth, through the halfway desert, to Kleinzees shores littered with shipwrecks, Frank investigates a long overlooked story. Weaving interviews with local diamond miners who raise pigeons in secret with harrowing anecdotes from former heads of security, environmental managers, and vigilante pigeon hunters, Frank reveals how these feathered bandits became outlaws in every mining town.Interwoven throughout this obsessive quest are epic legends in which pigeons and diamonds intersect, such as that of Krishnas famed diamond KohiNoor, the Mountain of Light, and that of the Cherokee serpent Uktena. In these strange connections, where truth forever tangles with the lore of centuries past, Frank is able to contextualize the personal grief that sent him, with his wife Louisa in the passenger seat, on this enlightening journey across parched lands.Blending elements of reportage, memoir, and incantation, Flight of the Diamond Smugglers is a rare and remarkable portrait of exploitation and greed in one of the most dangerous areas of coastal South Africa. With his sovereign prose and insatiable curiosity, Matthew Gavin Frank reminds us that the world is a place of wonder if only we look (Toby Muse). 1 map
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Returns
To facilitate a smooth return process, a Return Authorization (RA) Number is required for all returns. Returns without a valid RA number will be declined and may incur additional fees. You can request an RA number within 15 days of the original delivery date. For more details, please refer to our Return & Refund Policy page.
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We provide a 2-year limited warranty, from the date of purchase for all our products.
If you believe you have received a defective product, or are experiencing any problems with your product, please contact us.
This warranty strictly does not cover damages that arose from negligence, misuse, wear and tear, or not in accordance with product instructions (dropping the product, etc.).
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers'? A: The main theme of 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' revolves around the exploration of diamond smuggling along the coastal regions of South Africa, highlighting the intersection of obsession, greed, and the unique methods employed in this illicit trade.
- Q: Who is the author of the book? A: The author of 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' is Matthew Gavin Frank, an American journalist known for his investigative work and storytelling.
- Q: What type of book is 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers'? A: 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' is classified as a blend of reportage, memoir, and narrative non-fiction, providing an insightful look into the diamond smuggling trade.
- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' contains a total of 224 pages.
- Q: When was 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' published? A: 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' was published on February 23, 2021.
- Q: What is the book's binding type? A: The book features a hardcover binding, which offers durability and a premium feel.
- Q: Is 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' suitable for all readers? A: 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' is suitable for adult readers and may appeal to those interested in true crime, adventure stories, or the complexities of the diamond industry.
- Q: What can readers expect from the writing style of Matthew Gavin Frank? A: Readers can expect a lyrical and compelling prose style from Matthew Gavin Frank, who combines narrative storytelling with investigative journalism to engage and inform.
- Q: Are there any illustrations or maps included in the book? A: Yes, 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' includes one map that helps contextualize the geographical setting of the story.
- Q: What makes this book a notable read according to reviews? A: Reviews highlight 'Flight of the Diamond Smugglers' as an unforgettable adventure that combines personal narrative with investigative insights, making it a remarkable portrait of exploitation and intrigue in a unique setting.