And so, the intrepid author decided to go from Pennsylvania to South Africa, because of Hans Zimmer…

Don’t believe it?

By the end of the book, you just might.

This isn’t a coherent tale of one mans journey from Inspiration to salvation, topped off by the inevitable revelation that we are all the same under the skin. This is a madcap romp through south Africa, back to America, back to South Africa, rinse (with unclean water) and repeat.

The style of storytelling is engaging, it’s fast paced and doesn’t spare the blushes of all those concerned, Mammoth Gruesome Bowel Movement being one of the more colourful (although thankfully not illustrated) descriptions when it came to the things encountered. It’s clear that the author had a lot to learn when they left Pennsylvania, and they own their complicity in how things were to begin with, understanding that while things have always been that way, it doesn’t mean that they had to be that way.

This is not to say that the book is full of political overtures and conclusions, and while there are changes in thought that occur steadily throughout, it’s clear that the person writing the book has already matured from the person who made the journey in the first place.

The revelation that the problems seen in places like South Africa are not just a result of the policies that were enacted over decades, but also a glimpse into the future of the rest of the world, can really only be understood when you read through the book and see how those things crept up on the people who lived in those countries and only after they came to pass, did everyone realise that they’d seen them all along. What you think has been a riotous error of an endeavour turns out to be a thought provoking theorem only in the last few pages.

For those not sure, you can read more of Jacks thoughts at https://www.jacks.blog/, his style of writing has not changed since he wrote the book, but there’s a lot to digest in here and it’s always good to start with a primer.

Thanks to Whitefox Publishing and the Author for the Free ARC, my views are my own, no incentive offered or accepted.

Book Review: How The Rhino Lost His Horn by Jack Rathmell

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently finished How The Rhino Lost His Horn by Jack Rathmell, and I have to say, it’s a compelling and thoughtful travel memoir that earned a solid four stars from me. The book chronicles Jack’s journey from small-town America to South Africa, sparked by a classic quarter-life crisis and the idealistic urge to make a difference. Facing the pressure of college debt and searching for purpose, he heads to Cape Town with the hope of helping children, only to find himself immersed in a far more complex and sometimes harsh reality than he anticipated.

What makes this story stand out is how Jack doesn’t shy away from exposing the contradictions and challenges of his experience. The “modern world” virtues he once believed in — connectivity, convenience, progress — seem distant and hollow compared to the raw and often chaotic environment he encounters in South Africa. From navigating the fraught dynamics among volunteers to dealing with the unpredictable local wildlife, Jack’s adventures force him to reconsider his assumptions about the world, privilege, and identity.

The narrative is enriched by Rathmell’s vivid descriptions and honest reflections. His writing style is accessible and engaging, making the reader feel like they’re right there beside him, experiencing both the beauty and the difficulties of life in South Africa. The book thoughtfully explores themes like politics, race, and class without ever feeling preachy or detached. For anyone who enjoys travel memoirs with a dose of social commentary and personal growth, this is definitely worth a read.

Also, I can’t help but mention the book’s cover — it’s absolutely delightful and really caught my eye. It’s one of those covers that perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and introspection that runs throughout the book.

Overall, How The Rhino Lost His Horn is a nuanced and heartfelt account of a young man’s journey through unfamiliar territory — geographically and emotionally. While it might not be perfect in every regard, its honesty and vivid storytelling make it a memorable read that will stick with you long after you turn the last page.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️