'..the first time you heard a Tizita that was yours, you fell in love with it. You never forget your first love; you never forget your first Tizita.'
In the heart of Nairobi, four musicians The Diva, The Taliban Man, The Corporal and 70-year-old bartender Miriam gather for a once in a lifetime competition, to see who can perform the best Tizita. In the audience is tabloid journalist John Thandi Manfredi, who is enthralled by their renditions of the Ethiopian blues.
Desperate to learn more, he follows the musicians back to Ethiopia, hoping to uncover the secret to this haunting music. Manfredi's search takes him from the idyllic Ethiopian countryside to vibrant juke joints and raucous parties in Addis Ababa, set to a soundtrack of stirring Tizita performances.
From the humble domesticity behind the Diva's glamorous faade, to the troubling question of the Corporal's military service past, Manfredi discovers that the many layers to this musical genre are reflected in the lives and secrets of its performers.
A love letter to beauty, music and the imagination, Unbury Our Dead with Song captures how it feels have an encounter with the sublime.
'Part mystery, part road novel, part philosophical enquiry, [this] is a dazzling journey to discover the meaning of music and its immense power over the human soul.' Aminatta Forna, author of Happiness and The Devil that Danced on the Water
'Unbury Our Dead With Song is not merely a literary and a musical masterpiece but an artistic triumph.' Zukiswa Wanner, author of The Madams and Men of the South
'If you are someone who is stirred by the sound of a song, or feel an ache in your heart over a farewell, and you enjoy a well-crafted and honest book please put this one on your reading list.' New African Magazine
'..the first time you heard a Tizita that was yours, you fell in love with it. You never forget your first love; you never forget your first Tizita.'
In the heart of Nairobi, four musicians The Diva, The Taliban Man, The Corporal and 70-year-old bartender Miriam gather for a once in a lifetime competition, to see who can perform the best Tizita. In the audience is tabloid journalist John Thandi Manfredi, who is enthralled by their renditions of the Ethiopian blues.
Desperate to learn more, he follows the musicians back to Ethiopia, hoping to uncover the secret to this haunting music. Manfredi's search takes him from the idyllic Ethiopian countryside to vibrant juke joints and raucous parties in Addis Ababa, set to a soundtrack of stirring Tizita performances.
From the humble domesticity behind the Diva's glamorous faade, to the troubling question of the Corporal's military service past, Manfredi discovers that the many layers to this musical genre are reflected in the lives and secrets of its performers.
A love letter to beauty, music and the imagination, Unbury Our Dead with Song captures how it feels have an encounter with the sublime.
'Part mystery, part road novel, part philosophical enquiry, [this] is a dazzling journey to discover the meaning of music and its immense power over the human soul.' Aminatta Forna, author of Happiness and The Devil that Danced on the Water
'Unbury Our Dead With Song is not merely a literary and a musical masterpiece but an artistic triumph.' Zukiswa Wanner, author of The Madams and Men of the South
'If you are someone who is stirred by the sound of a song, or feel an ache in your heart over a farewell, and you enjoy a well-crafted and honest book please put this one on your reading list.' New African Magazine
The Dead must stay buried.
Karthia is nothing like it used to be. The kingdom's borders are open for the first time in nearly three hundred years, and raising the dead has been outlawed. Odessa is...
BookLoop is your trusted local Australian destination for books, games, toys, puzzles, tarot cards, stationery, and thoughtful gifts, offering a huge range of carefully curated products for curious minds of all ages. As a proudly Australian-owned bookstore, we are passionate about connecting our community with inspiring reads, creative play, and unique finds that bring joy, spark imagination, and support lifelong learning. Whether you're shopping for bestselling fiction, children’s picture books, educational resources, or non-fiction titles that encourage mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth, our ever-expanding book collection has something for everyone—including titles from local Australian authors that celebrate homegrown talent and storytelling. But we’re more than just a bookstore—our diverse range includes engaging puzzles for solo or family fun, educational and screen-free toys designed to develop skills and creativity, and family-friendly board games that bring people together. If you're looking for something with a little extra meaning, our beautifully illustrated tarot cards and oracle decks are perfect for beginners and seasoned readers alike, with options chosen for their artistry, symbolism, and accessibility. We also carry a range of gifts and stationery, from handcrafted journals and high-quality pens to bookmarks, greeting cards, candles, and calming tools, making it easy to find the perfect present for birthdays, celebrations, or simply because. Every product on our shelves is selected with care, quality, and purpose, making BookLoop a one-stop shop for thoughtful, meaningful shopping that supports creativity and wellbeing. We believe in the value of small business and community connection, which is why we’re committed to sourcing products that reflect our values and offering the kind of friendly, personalised service that big retailers can’t match. When you shop with us, you’re not only choosing beautifully curated items—you’re supporting a local Australian business that genuinely cares. We ship Australia-wide with a flat rate to keep things simple and affordable, and every order is carefully packed and quickly dispatched by our small, dedicated team. Our online shopping experience is safe, easy, and user-friendly, making it convenient to explore our wide range of books, gifts, and games from the comfort of home. We’ve seen a growing demand for titles and toys that support mental health, especially in children and teens, and we’re proud to stock a growing number of books on ADHD, emotional regulation, positive thinking, and self-esteem, as well as calming puzzles and sensory-friendly gifts that are both fun and supportive. Whether you're looking to inspire a young reader, encourage imaginative play, find your next favourite novel, or gift someone something truly special, BookLoop has you covered. Thank you for choosing to shop local and support a business that believes in the power of stories, creativity, and connection—explore our full collection today and experience the difference of thoughtful, heart-led retail with BookLoop.
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