The story of this man—medical missionary, explorer, scientist, and, above all, friend of mankind—is more amazing than fiction. His explorations from the southern tip of Africa for thousands of miles to the north literally opened up a continent that was then unknown. He was the first to bring Christianity and medical science to hundreds of native tribes. He was the first ever to cross Africa from sea to sea, discovering new water routes into the interior. His geographical discoveries and observations of plant and animal life added enormously to scientific knowledge. But the most revealing fact about Livingstone is that he was called "Father" by African natives al the way from the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean. His efforts, more than any other factor, brought about the end of the slave trade in Africa.

Livingstone's encounters with the natives, invariably hostile until they knew him, and with dangerous jungle animals read like the wildest adventure story. That he survived the hardships and hazards of his chosen career in Africa for thirty years seems almost incredible. His steadfast faith and courage and loving-kindness in the face of disappointment and suffering are inspiring. This is a moving and sensitively written account of the life of a very great man.

From the dust jacket