Surprising Europe is a new series exploring the lives of African immigrants in Europe, giving voice to their successes and challenges.

So far what’s fascinating is exactly how everyday the reports seem to be, featuring thick descriptions of everything from harrowing stories of travel by boat, to the food and car preferences of an exceptionally wealthy entrepreneur.

Also interesting is the fact that the series seems primarily aimed at Africans in Africa. While it aired on Dutch television, and Al Jazeera English, there is a distinct sense that this is a private conversation that you are being permitted to listen in on. And so this is a very different narrative of immigration; one that is much less clear-cut and academic — in the worst sense of that word — instead this series constructs a multiple and messy story. You know something like real life. I’m looking forward to finding the time to watch all of these.