The Lionkeeper of Algiers

Des Ekin’s historical account, “The Lionkeeper of Algiers,” tells the story of James Leander Cathcart, an American hostage in Algiers. Despite being held captive, Cathcart advanced from being a lion keeper to the position of Chief Clerk at the Palace, where he also set up safe havens for American detainees.

He went back to Algiers to finish a peace project after arriving back in America. His life is examined in the book during a pivotal juncture in American history.