Pope Francis, Politics and the Mabanta Boy

Whilst it took me a few sittings to get into it and one of the longest books I have tried to read, it became hugely engaging. Detailed and fascinating Church history tracing the Universal Roman Catholic's foundation and influence and how it tied into establishment of faith communities on the African Continet. The history, culture, tribalism, political rivalry, church influences, etc in Sierre Leonne was equally detailed, whilst the passion and personal reflection of Sheka's life opportunities, professional experiences, faith, callings and giftings climaxing in his audience with the Pope fascinated. He is obvously a gifted communicator reflected both in tbis book and the jobs he has worked in. Convinced and confirmed in me that there is a GOD who has a special plan for each of our lives to quote that familiar Jeremiah scripture. Awaiting in high exoectation for the next book.

No one reads this book and forgets it in a hurry. Hon. Sheka Tarawalie is a fine and brave author of our time. Unearthing the 'sins' of the Catholic Church and daring to delve into controversial issues such as sex, sale of indulgence, Islamic holy wars put him at odds with traditional religious leaders. The book reveals that politics is not a career for the faint-hearten but for the brave. I can remember him standing at the Well of Parliament of Sierra Leone during the regime of late President Kabbah on a charge of improperly addressing the head of state. Like a sheep he appeared before the MPs but like a lion he stood straight and strong. The book traces the path of a boy from a village to the corridors of power in Sierra Leone, Italy and UK.

Through a life of fervour and struggle, he has earned himself a place as one of Sierra Leone and Africa finest writers in this 21st Century. He described his journey from a humble beginning to a greater height of meeting with the Pope. His blistering honesty, recounting his transition as someone who endures persecution from a bitter experience as a journalist (who was jailed and went into exile in UK), into an articulate politician, he continue to relevance on his Christian doctrines and his emphasis on self-respect and self-help. This work from Sheka Tarawalie aka Shekito is eye-catching, creative, gut-wrenching consequential book. His electrifying story has transformed Sheka Tarawallie's story into his legacy. The strength of his words in this book, and the power of his ideals in this book, will continue to resonate to generations. And it will forever have a permanent place in our school literature curriculum.