Musician Energy Mutodi Pens Academic book

Businessman turned musician Energy Mutodi

Title : A Level Physical Geography

Written by : Chrispen Zarima and Energy Mutodi

Reviewed by : Ruth Butaumocho

Published by : Priority Projects Publishing

Businessman and musician Energy Mutodi is one person who has got his hands literally on everything.  Apart from his theatrical stunts in the showbiz sector, Mutodi now wants to make a name for himself in the academic world as a writer following the publication of his second book, “A-Level Physical Geography”, that he co-authored with Chrispen Zarima.

His first book, “The Origins of the Apostolic Faith Mission Church in Zimbabwe”, was published in 2000.

“A-Level Physical Geography” is an academic book that epitomises a comprehensive approach to physical geography for Advanced Level students seating for both Zimsec and Cambridge examinations.

Throughout the book, the writers present their rich material clearly and systematically, while capturing trends in geography through the use of relevant illustrations and photographs. Consisting of 10 chapters, the first five chapters deal with atmospheric processes and weather phenomena, while the last five look at environmental systems and land forms.

Chapter four that looks at geormophology — the science of landforms — is probably the longest in the book. With more than 40 pages dedicated to the topic, the writers tackle the subject with surprising intellect, making use of case studies juxtaposed against theories that have been in existence since the 19th century.

Through the use of diagrams and pictures of geomorphological processes from Zimbabwe, surrounding areas and far away places like Hong Kong, the writers were able to come up with defining parallels on the same subjects, making it easier for students to comprehend issues at hand. 

Chapter Four opens with a widely expounded definition of geomorphology and various types of rocks and landforms. 

Although most of the information in this textbook, currently being used in schools — is not new to geography students, the writers edified the material by further providing detailed analysis on controversial geopolitical developments among rich and poor nations. At the end of each chapter, the writers compile examination type questions that students can use as a basis for revision.

However, this writer noted with concern a number of poor editing skills, where punctuation marks are wrongly used and some sentences are just too long, sometimes making it difficult for students to comprehend the topic. (Herald)