The Worlds of a Maasai Warrior: An Autobiography

I read Tepilit Ole Saitoti's The Worlds of a Maasai Warrior because I was so impressed with several books I read on the life of pygmies. The Maasai is another proud race that is disappearing, trampled by the march of so-called civilization. How other people live in the arms of nature while I'm snug and hidden in my man-made home with my store-bought food amazes me.Tepilit grew up on the African Serengeti, drinking milk for breakfast, herding cows all day, and feeling lucky to have food for dinner. He was happy-content. He didn't feel put upon or less than the city folk in their cars and clothes. He led what we would call a simple life, one which he considered complete, filled with the natural wonder of nature's flora and fauna. Somehow, hard to say how it happened, but he grew to love learning. This passion for education led him to the western world and a Bachelors, then a Masters. I'm not sure if they made him happier-I think not-or if he just changed, became more civilized in a Western sense, with no negative connotations to that observation.The books ends with his plea, "The only key that can now open locked doors is education. The Maasai once resisted education, afraid of losing their children. Now... the Maasai have come to accept it."I didn't realize the Maasai had a reputation as warriors until I read Tepilit's autobiography. When their youth grow to adulthood, they aspire to the warrior class. Not because they fight the enemy anymore, or enter in battle with their foe, but for the same reasons many of our youth join the military. The uniform of a warrior marks the individual as strong and competent, which is a worthy designation for mature males.Overall, I would recommend this to anyone wishing to understand how to be happy in life. Tepilit makes it clear that it's not our western culture or anything that rhymes with 'money' that brings happiness. Rather, it's an intrinsic quality within us, a pride in who we are and from where we came. I wonder how many of us are as lucky as Tepilit Ole Saitoti.

This is a very good book for those trying to understand the Maasai people and their similarities, differences, strengths and current weaknesses. I enjoyed reading this book because it gave me an understanding of the ways Americans are different than those in Africa. I still wish I could visit them there.

Very interesting story of a unique personal journey, with insightful glimpses into Masai culture and thinking along the way. The conclusion left me hanging a bit, though. The author does a great job of delineating the problem, i.e., the need for Masai culture to better adapt to the ever-advancing modernization of East Africa. Other than advocating generally for better education, though, he really does not offer much thought or attention to moving the ball forward. Still, an easy and worthwhile read that left me with greater respect and appreciation for the Masai and provoked further thinking about the challenges they face in the 21st century.

The book is very informative, Following the amazing story of a man who becomes a Maasai warrior in his homeland, to a finding even international success!

While the author was a child in the 60’s and much has changed in Africa since it is still a compelling look at a culture vastly different from modern America. Colonialism and exploitation for the tourist trade has decimated the Maasai and other indigenous cultures. Their lives were often harsh but also more connected to each other and the land.

Since I was travelling to Tanzania I wanted to familiarize myself with the culture of one of the largest and strongest tribes in the area. This book did not disappoint. I was even reading it while being in the exact places he described - it was an amazing experience. The book is written well, the story and culture are very interesting, and very true. When I met people of the Maasai tribe, I felt I understood them much better having read this book before hand.

I recently visited a Maasai village in Africa and found the book very interesting but also think if he really excelled as he states it was a most unusual situation, not at all like the young Maasai men I met. I found the Maasai to be very special people and I will always treasure my time with them.

I wanted to learn more about the lives of the Maasai Warriors and how modern ways are gradually changing how they live.

Anyone who has visited (or intends to visit) Kenya or indeed Africa should read this book. The message at the end concerning education is prophetic and still applies today.

Arrived exactly as described. Very pleased with purchase.

What wonderful insights into a culture we know so little about. This book made me realize that although nomadic peoples, the Maasai have a strong culture, traditions and rules in their society. I was happy to catch a glimpse of their lives and believe more than ever that we are all in this together as fellow human beings who inhabit our earth.

It was interesting but I would have liked more insight into the African experience rather than his education. It was not spell binding the way I expected.