This video series is stunning, but don't miss the companion book by John Reader. He also wrote great book on Africa which came out before the National Geographic series, so you might give it a try: http://www.amazon.com/Africa-Biography-Continent-John-Reader/dp/067973869X.The only minor quibble I have is that they used the same Lisa Gerrard song in back-to-back episodes. Since I was glued to the sofa I did see those episodes in one sitting, and therefore that song (which is one of my all-time music faves) did seem to be over-used. More Lisa Gerrard and Dead Can Dance music, plus a track from Run Lola Run, are used to good effect.If you love the Planet Earth series, watch Africa.