Blood Phone
Blood Phone by Van Campen, published by Austin Macauley Publishers Limited on May 24, 2024, is a work of fiction that delves into the dark realities of resource extraction in the Congo. The narrative follows Erik Luyts, a commodities trader from Geneva, who travels to the region where children are forced to mine rare earth minerals under the threat of violence from child soldiers. As Erik confronts the harsh truths of the mining industry, he grapples with his own hidden past and the moral implications of his actions.
Readers will find a poignant exploration of the impact of conflict minerals on local communities and the broader implications for global industries, including mobile phones and electric vehicles. The book addresses themes of child labor and the exploitation inherent in resource-rich areas, providing a stark portrayal of the human cost behind everyday technology. With 244 pages, this edition invites readers to reflect on the ethical dimensions of consumerism and the ongoing struggles faced by those in the Congo.
Official synopsis Publisher
Children in Congo are digging rare earth minerals and ore for weapons, mobile phones and electric cars held at gunpoint by child soldiers. Millions of people have been killed in Congo because they live in resource-rich areas. ‘Rape is a weapon of war’ says Congolese Dr Denis Mukwege, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Erik Luyts, a commodities trader based in Geneva, travels to Congo because the Chinese are becoming too competitive. His wife Pauline at Doctors Without Borders warns him against it. Erik decides to do something about the terrible abuses, but can’t prevent that his hidden past is catching up with him.
PRAISE FOR VAN CAMPEN:
‘May I call you the Dutch John le Carré’
Alphonse Muambi, Congolese Journalist.
‘I must say, this is an exciting book.’
Pim van Galen, Journalist at Dutch Public Television (NOS).
‘We may be able to stop the bleeding, but not the bullets.’
Cecile Dehopre, Doctors without Borders, Amsterdam.
‘Van Campen makes people aware and confronts them with child labour, working conditions and conflict minerals in Congo’s current mining industry.’
Bas van Abel, founder of Fairphone.
‘This book is a revelation, after you read it, you will never mindlessly make use of a mobile phone!’
Charles den Tex, thriller writer.
FAQ
What is “Blood Phone” about?
Who is the author of “Blood Phone”?
When was “Blood Phone” published?
What is the ISBN for “Blood Phone”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
