"The Chain and The Amulet" is a captivating blend of fact and fiction,
unfolding in 1970s and 1980s Gambia. This tale revolves around Satou, who,
unbeknownst to her, was promised to a prosperous trader shortly after her
birth.
As Satou blossoms into a young beauty, she excels in school thanks to a
mysterious sponsor-her betrothed. However, her seemingly idyllic life
takes an unexpected turn in high school when she meets and falls in love
with Lamin, the son of her promised partner.
Woven into Satou's narrative is the factual account of the 1981 coup d'tat in
Gambia, orchestrated by Kukoi Samba Sanyang. This historical perspective
is shared through the eyes of Lang. Lang's experiences guide us through the
coup's unfolding events, shedding light on Kukoi's fate and the insurgents
who fled Gambia, seeking refuge in Guinea Bissau, Cuba, and undergoing
military training in Libya.
"The Chain and The Amulet" skillfully navigates the complexities of
arranged marriages and polygamy. It offers a rich portrayal of the aftermath
of Kukoi's failed coup - an event that resulted in numerous deaths in Gambia.
This beautifully crafted narrative provides a compelling exploration of love
and political turmoil.