In this compelling debut, Ben Rawlence sets out to gather the news that never travels far - the news from the uneasy peace being made in Congo's 'silent quarter'. He travels by foot, bike, and boat, taking his time and meeting the people who are making a life in one of the world's most dangerous places. He introduces us to Colonel Rachid, a guerrilla turned army officer; the Lebanese cousins Mohammed & Mohammed, young tin traders shipped to Africa by their family; and the priest Jean-Baptiste, who explains the price of beer and normality. Along the way, Rawlence exposes the real story of Congo, during and after the war.