The African Queen

The African Queen is an adventure novel set in German East Africa during World War I. The story follows Charlie Allnutt, a rough, good-natured mechanic who operates a small steam launch called the African Queen, and Rose Sayer, a prim and determined English missionary. After Rose’s brother dies following the outbreak of war, Allnutt becomes her only companion and means of escape.

Stranded behind enemy lines, Rose proposes a daring plan: use the African Queen to travel down treacherous rivers and attack a powerful German gunboat, the Königin Luise, which controls a key lake. Though initially reluctant, Allnutt agrees, and the two embark on a dangerous journey through rapids, swamps, hostile terrain, and mechanical failures.

As they face physical hardship and constant peril, Rose and Allnutt develop mutual respect that gradually grows into love. Their mission culminates in a desperate attempt to sink the German gunboat by converting the African Queen into an improvised torpedo.

The novel combines romance, adventure, and survival, highlighting how courage and partnership can emerge in the harshest circumstances.