Books matching: complexities of apartheid
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Trevor Noah's memoir, "Born a Crime: Stories From a South African Childhood," offers a unique perspective on growing up during and after apartheid in South Africa. Through a series of vignettes, Noah intertwines seemingly unrelated stories to illuminate the forces that shaped his childhood. The book delves into the complexities of race and culture in South Africa, providing insights into the author's upbringing, his family dynamics, and the societal norms that influenced his life.
Sometimes in big Hollywood movies they’ll have these crazy chase scenes where somebody jumps or gets thrown from a moving car. The person hits the ground and rolls for a bit. Then they come to a stop ...- #2
Save:'Country of My Skull' by Antjie Krog is a compelling account of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) hearings in South Africa post-Apartheid era. Through a fragmented narrative style, Krog captures the stark and traumatic quality of the actual hearings, providing insights into the challenges faced during this crucial period in South African history. She delves into the details of the TRC, discussing what worked and what didn't, highlighting the ambiguity and complexities involved in seeking truth and reconciliation after the atrocities of the Apartheid regime.
Antjie Krog's writing style allows for creative elements that enhance the material without detracting from the facts, offering multiple perspectives including her own as she grapples with the realities presented during the commission's work. provides a window into South Africa's journey towards healing and accountability, showcasing the struggle for justice and forgiveness in the aftermath of the country's dark past.
Sunk low on their springs, three weathered white Sierras roar past the wrought-iron gates of Parliament. Heavy, hamlike forearms bulge through the open windows—honking, waving old Free State and Trans... - #3
Save:Readers describe 'Riotous Assembly' as a satirical take on apartheid-era South Africa, showcasing the absurdity of the system through hilarious and exaggerated scenarios. The book follows the antics of characters such as Kommandant Els and Ms. Hazelstone in the fictional town of Piemburg, offering a comedic yet insightful commentary on the societal structures and injustices of the time. Tom Sharpe's writing style is praised for its wit, satire, and ability to blend humor with serious themes, providing a unique perspective on a dark period in history.
Piemburg is deceptive. Nothing about it is entirely what it seems to be. Huddled among the foothills of the Drakensberg and crouching at the feet of a great flat-topped hill it has few of the marks of... - #4
Save:'The Woman Next Door' by Yewande Omotoso is a novel set in post-apartheid Cape Town, South Africa, focusing on the complex relationship between two elderly neighbors, Marion and Hortensia. Both women have lived next to each other for years in a state of restrained enmity, but circumstances force them to interact on a new level, leading to a fragile friendship. Through flashbacks, the author reveals the history of these two women, highlighting their bitterness, regrets, and the challenges they face as they navigate their past and present. The story delves into themes of race, anger, pride, forgiveness, remorse, and friendship, presenting Marion and Hortensia as complex characters in a complex situation.
THE HABIT OF walking was something Hortensia took up after Peter fell ill. Not at the beginning of his sickness, but later, when he turned seriously ill, bedridden. It had been a Wednesday. She rememb... - #5
Save:In 'A Beautiful Place to Die', set in 1950s apartheid South Africa, Detective Emmanuel Cooper is tasked with investigating the murder of a white Afrikaner police officer in a small town filled with racism and political tensions. As Cooper delves into the case, he uncovers hidden truths about the victim and faces challenges from the Security Service and the local community, all against the backdrop of apartheid laws and racial segregation. The story skillfully intertwines elements of a murder mystery with the complexities of racial conflicts, social injustices, and the political landscape of the time.
The book offers a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the harsh realities of apartheid-era South Africa, portraying the intense racial dynamics, political intrigues, and the struggles faced by the characters. Through well-drawn characters and intricate relationships, the author, Malla Nunn, weaves a story that not only entertains as a crime novel but also serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the racial tensions and injustices prevalent during that period.
DETECTIVE SERGEANT EMMANUEL Cooper switched off the engine and looked out through the dirty windscreen. He was in deep country. To get deeper he’d have to travel back in time to the Zulu wars. Two For... - #6
Save:'The Covenant' by James A. Michener is a sweeping historical fiction novel that covers the history of South Africa over 500 years, starting from the early San peoples to the era of apartheid. The book follows the stories of several families - one Dutch Afrikaner, one English, and one native - providing a fictional account of the founding of South Africa through well-researched storytelling. The writing style of Michener presents the history of South Africa through different time periods with extremely interesting characters, giving readers a comprehensive introduction to the country's complex past.
While these narcotic names infected him with their sweet poison he stayed on deck and watched the moon tiptoe across the waves of an ocean he still could not comprehend, and grudgingly he admitted tha... Set in South Africa in the 1940s, 'Cry, The Beloved Country' follows the journey of a Zulu pastor, Stephen Kumalo, as he searches for his son in the bustling city of Johannesburg. The story intricately weaves together the lives of two fathers and their sons, exploring the racial injustices and societal struggles faced by both black and white communities during the apartheid era. Through poignant storytelling and lyrical prose, Alan Paton creates a narrative that delves into themes of love, hope, forgiveness, and the enduring dignity of humanity.
THERE IS A lovely road that runs from Ixopo into the hills. These hills are grass-covered and rolling, and they are lovely beyond any singing of it. The road climbs seven miles into them, to Carisbroo...- #8
Save:Rian Malan's book 'My Traitor's Heart' is a profound memoir that delves into the author's journey as an Afrikaner in South Africa, grappling with his own white privilege, the complexities of his country's history, and his evolving political beliefs. Through candid storytelling, Malan reflects on his family's role in shaping South Africa, his personal struggles with his conscience and privilege, and his commitment to the liberation of black South Africans. The book explores themes of identity, colonialism, apartheid, and the internal conflict of being torn between the oppressor and the oppressed.
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Save:'Disgrace' by J.M. Coetzee follows the story of Professor David Lurie, an aging university teacher who faces disgrace after being accused of inappropriate relationships with his students. The narrative delves into themes of age, relationships, culture, and taboo, exploring the protagonist's brutal honesty about himself and his struggles to navigate his disintegrating career and personal life. Set in post-apartheid South Africa, the novel addresses complex issues such as race relations, power dynamics, and societal transformations, all while showcasing Coetzee's spare and engaging writing style that keeps readers engrossed in the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and redemption.
FOR A MAN of his age, fifty-two, divorced, he has, to his mind, solved the problem of sex rather well. On Thursday afternoons he drives to Green Point. Punctually at two p.m. he presses the buzzer at ... - #10
Save:Deon Meyer's 'Thirteen Hours' is a gripping police thriller set in Cape Town, following the intense day in the life of Detective Benny Griessel. The story unfolds over a period of 13 hours, involving multiple cases including the murder of a music executive, a conspiracy within the recording business, and the pursuit of ruthless criminals after two American backpackers. The book delves into the racial politics within the South African Police Service, showcasing the complexities of the new South Africa through the eyes of Griessel and his interactions with a diverse group of police recruits. Meyer's writing style weaves together multiple perspectives, intense suspense, and intricate plotlines, creating a taut and finely written narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
