They Called Him Mallam: The Biography of Joseph Ummel, a Pioneer Missionary to Northern Nigeria, West Africa Hardcover - 2005

From the publisher

Born February 22, 1897 Joe Ummel grew up four miles south of Elkhart, Indiana, on a potato farm with orchards and a Holstein dairy herd-his father, John Ummel Sr., a beekeeper. Their family assisted orphanages in Armenia (interests of Joe's maternal grandfather). Mealtime often included ministers and missionaries from other lands. His missionary work sent Joe to Nigeria where there were great challenges for a young man. In Nigeria only three months, Joe trekked up-country at the invitation of the British Government, entering Kontagora province as the first white man. His home, a grass shelter. Calabash across the swollen river with Joe; ride on the back of his bicycle, and in his canoe down the Niger River through the rapids; feel his compassion as he listens to their stories, legends; watch Joe become the beloved and trusted Mallam (teacher) in the Northland as he builds three mission compounds, and cycles to the many surrounding villages. Accompany Joe on the SS El Nil-a WWII crossing in May-June 1941-and glimpse WWII from Nigeria's point of view. Then catch-up on the reports of the United Missionary Church of Africa (UMCA), and the mission today. You'll love it, Ta Zuru.