Hax's Book
Through Maasiland
In The Footsteps of Africa's Greatest Explorer
In 1883, the Royal Geographical Society in London commissioned a young Scotsman to find a viable route from the east coast of Africa to Lake Victoria in the centre. His name was Joseph Thompson and he was the first European to successfully travel through the notorious land of the Maasai and live to tell his story.
I followed this young man’s incredible footsteps to make a documentary for the History Channel. I also wrote, photographed and published the story my journey, in this book. Through Maasailand, In The Footsteps of Africa’s Greatest Explorer.
There are a few copies of the book left you can order your copy, which I will sign for you, using this button here.
Book's Foreward by Andrew Morton
I was first introduced to Mike's work when I saw his documentary 'Africa's Greatest Explorer' following the footsteps of the Scottish explorer Joseph Thompson during the 1880s. While none of Thompson's photographs taken on this epic journey have survived, his contemporary journal marked a milestone in describing the evolution of Africa.
Mike's book which is lavishly illustrated with evocative photographs, painstakingly traces Joseph Thompson's historical journey from the East African coast to Lake Victoria. Along the way he documents a massive change amongst the people and landscapes of East Africa, in particular Kenya, since Thompson's first forays. Wilderness areas are now farmland and wildlife is pocketed into sanctuaries and reserves. Tribal culture is under pressure and whilst there are many making these changes willingly, others are slow to grasp the influence of our global society.
Sadly many of the customs and traditions which Thompson witnessed will be gone forever. Thankfully Mike has captured the essence for prosperity.
Andrew Morton is one of the worlds best known biographers. During the 1990s he spent much of his time in Kenya researching his biography of the country’s second President, Daniel arap Moi.