This book examines the profound impact of armed conflict on the daily lives of African civilians. It details the hardships and challenges faced by ordinary people whose existence was irrevocably altered by wars spanning from the colonial era to the Rwandan genocide, drawing on historical accounts to illustrate their resilience and suffering.

The book is likely to be regarded as a significant contribution to understanding the human cost of conflict in Africa, offering a civilian-centric perspective often overshadowed by military histories. Its scope, covering a broad historical period and diverse regions, suggests a comprehensive and detailed examination of the subject matter. The focus on everyday experiences provides a crucial counterpoint to traditional war narratives, highlighting the resilience and suffering of those caught in the crossfire.