Kroz pustinju i prašumu
An adventure novel for young adults by Polish Nobel Prize winner Henryk Sienkiewicz, set in exotic 19th-century Africa. The work, translated into many languages, follows the adventures of a boy, Staś Tarkowski, and a girl, Nel Rawlison.
The story begins in Egypt, where Staś (14) and Nel (8) are kidnapped by followers of the Sudanese rebel Mahdi, who want to use the children as bargaining chips. The kidnappers lead Staś and Nel through the harsh deserts of Sudan and the jungles of East Africa. Staś, intelligent and brave, takes responsibility for their survival. With the help of his faithful African friends, Kali and Meja, as well as King the elephant and Sabu the dog, they face dangers such as lions, disease and storms. The novel depicts Staś's determination and resourcefulness as he protects Nel, fighting against natural disasters and kidnappers. Throughout the journey, themes of friendship, courage and the confrontation with injustice develop.
Sienkiewicz masterfully combines adventure with descriptions of the African landscape, culture and colonial context, although some of the points of view reflect the Eurocentric view of the 19th century. The work celebrates youthful courage and loyalty, but also provokes reflection on colonialism. The novel ends with the children's happy return home, leaving a strong impression on readers with its tension and warmth.
One copy is available
