Decolonizations is the adaptation of the eponymous documentary series broadcast on Arte in 2019. This illustrated book traces the history of 150 years of struggle against colonization in Africa and Asia, told through the destinies of the heroes and heroines of decolonization. Published in 2020 by Éditions du Seuil in co-edition with Arte Éditions, the book has sold more than 3,000 copies in France. The English language rights have been sold. 

 

By approaching the subject from the point of view of the colonized peoples and not from the point of view of the colonizers, Decolonizations tells the fascinating story of the long struggle of the peoples of Africa and Asia, waged with infinite patience and determination against their having been invaded.  "It's about telling history from the other side," explains Nathalie Beaux, Editorial Director of Seuil Beaux-Livres. 

 

"Giving voice to the silenced"

 

Whether it is Mary Nyanjiru, a Nairobi insurgent, or Lamine Senghor, a Senegalese gunman turned anti-colonialist activist in Paris, this book reveals the heroes and heroines, unknown or forgotten of decolonization, as well as more familiar characters such as Ghandi, Ho Chi Minh and General Giap who have reappropriated their destiny and their story. 

 

Copious academic and documentary research conducted by Pierre Singaravélou, historian specializing in contemporary history, Karim Miské, director and writer, and Marc Ball, documentary filmmaker, is the historical basis of this coffee table book delicately illustrated by Simon Pannetrat.

 

Decolonization has sold more than 3,000 copies in France to date and has gotten very favorable press. The talks given by the authors at the time of the release of the series and the publication of the book helped contribute to its success. 

 

The English language rights have been sold to the New York independent publisher Other Press. "A very nice sale. We are happy that this book, which has a universal and global appeal, is translated into English," says Nathalie Beaux, always open to other acquisition proposals.

 

Katja Petrovic and Hannah Sandvoss
May 2022