The Trial of J.J. Rawlings: Echoes of the 31st December Revolution (1st Edition)

The Trial of J.J. Rawlings is a fascinating book about a most fascinating period of Ghana’s history, at the centre of which stands the fascinating personality of J.J. Rawlings. This book was a sensation when it was published thirty-two years ago. It was a bestseller in Ghana and a most sought-after book by Ghanaians everywhere as well as people who, for whatever reason, had an interest in Ghana. This is because the book unlocked (or at least tried to unlock) the enigma of Jerry John Rawlings to the extent that it was possible so to do.

Almost a complete generation later, the book is even more relevant today than when it was first published; the story of Jerry Rawlings and the period of the AFRC and early PNDC periods remains only partially told. Indeed, the social and economic dynamics that produced June 4th have also receded into the mists of time, and with them the man at the centre of this tale. Therefore, the story this book tells has acquired a new urgency and become a national requirement.

NANA KWASI GYAN-APENTENG
CHAIRMAN, NATIONAL MEDIA COMMISSION