Darfur, 2006: There was not much room in the tent. There was less room on the cot. She lay, intertwined with Alex, staring dreamily as light wisps of sand sifted in front of the lamp. Alexander Barr stands on the edge of society. Humanity, devoid of civilization, is bared before him, raw and visceral. Sketches from the Periphery, MP Summers’ debut novel, is a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of the Darfur Conflict through the eyes of Alexander Barr, a young contractor confronted not only by the harsh realities of a fractured Sudan, but with his own morality. As he strives to find meaning, he encounters Cassandra, a fiercely independent European journalist on her own quest for understanding. Their paths continue to intersect as they both are drawn deeper into the conflict. With a blend of historical accuracy and fictional storytelling, Sketches from the Periphery offers a profound look at the impact of war on both individuals and societies, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the human stories behind global conflicts.