Review by Choice Review
In this well-researched book, Yates, a French academician, investigates the seemingly paradoxical observation of significant oil wealth and poverty in most African oil-producing states. The ten thematically organized chapters range from inter-state issues (e.g., colonial/postcolonial trade, multinationals, and types of governments) to the role of journalists and opposition political parties, mass popular movements, and armed insurrection within a specific country. The final chapter offers five potential solutions to the author's conclusion that African governments currently misappropriate most oil revenues. At his best, particularly in the early chapters, Yates uses well-chosen case studies to enrich the broader themes of the chapters. However, in the later chapters, which emphasize groups at the intra-state level (Yates's so-called "power from below"), the case studies seem narrowly focused on individual countries, and broader generalizations do not seem as forthcoming. Curiously, after some initial discussion, there is little specific content concerning China's emerging role as a major investor in African oil. Criticisms aside, this book serves as an important introduction to many of the complex issues surrounding oil booms and the continuing lack of development in African countries. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Students at all levels, faculty, researchers, general readers. J. M. Warner College of Wooster
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
