John F. Clark is professor of politics and international relations at Florida International University; he specializes in the politics and foreign policies of francophone Central Africa.Samuel Decalo is professor of Political Science at the University of Natal and visiting professor at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

• Editor’s Foreword (Jon Woronoff) Acknowledgments Acronyms and AbbreviationsMapsChronologyIntroductionThe DictionaryAppendix A: French Colonial Governors, 1880-1960Appendix B: Heads of State of Independent Congo, 1960-2012Bibliography About the Authors

Clark and Decalo present a comprehensive resource on all things Congolese. While the title is heavy on the political, the country’s history from around 500 CE through the 1960 declaration of independence and civil wars of the past decade, culture, and economic system are additional focus points. More than 700 cross-referenced entries account for the bulk of this one-volume gem, and are accompanied by an introduction, a chronology, and ready-reference appendixes. VERDICT Given that this book also features an extensive bibliography, it forms an outstanding entrée for those interested in the country.