Books matching: apartheid south africa
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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
A Dry White Season is a compelling story set in South Africa in the 1970s, following the journey of an ordinary man, Ben Du Toit, who gets entangled in the fight for justice after the mysterious death of his black friend's son, Jonathan, during the Apartheid era. The plot unfolds as Ben, a simple Johannesburg schoolteacher, navigates through the corrupt justice system and oppressive regime, determined to uncover the truth behind the injustices he witnesses. The book employs a thriller-like narrative style, delving into the complexities of societal issues and personal struggles, offering a thought-provoking and intense reading experience.
It all really began, as far as Ben was concerned, with the death of Gordon Ngubene. But from the notes he made subsequently, and from newspaper cuttings, it is obvious that the matter went back much f... - #3
'Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography' by Mark Mathabane is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the author's upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa. Growing up in a black ghetto, Mathabane narrates his struggles and triumphs, from facing poverty and police raids to finding solace in sports like tennis. The book captures the harsh realities of apartheid, the deep-seated racism, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through Mathabane's poignant storytelling, readers are taken on a journey of survival, hope, and the pursuit of a better life against all odds.
With a raw and honest writing style, Mathabane vividly portrays the horrors of apartheid and the impact it had on his life and the lives of those around him. The author's narrative not only educates readers about the brutalities of apartheid but also serves as a testament to the strength and determination of individuals striving for a better future in the face of oppression.
Nelson Mandela's autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," chronicles his extraordinary life journey, from his early years to his time as a political prisoner and ultimately becoming the President of South Africa. The book is praised for its captivating narrative style that delves into Mandela's experiences, struggles, and triumphs, providing readers with a deep insight into the history of South Africa's freedom movement and the end of apartheid. The writing style is described as engaging, powerful, and thought-provoking, drawing readers in and keeping them engrossed throughout the book.
APART FROM LIFE, a strong constitution, and an abiding connection to the Thembu royal house, the only thing my father bestowed upon me at birth was a name, Rolihlahla. In Xhosa, Rolihlahla literally m...- #5
Set in South Africa during World War II and the years following it, 'The Power of One' follows Peekay, a white British boy, between the ages of five and eleven, as he survives an abusive boarding school and goes on to succeed in life and the boxing ring, with help from a chicken, a boxer, a pianist, black African prisoners, and many others. The story portrays the courage and determination of Peekay as he navigates the challenges of growing up in South Africa, dealing with racism, and fighting for his dreams. The narrative offers a glimpse into the tense relationships among various factions in South Africa during that time period.
A coming-of-age tale filled with a terrific cast of characters, 'The Power of One' is praised for its masterful storytelling that takes the reader on an emotional journey. The protagonist, Peekay, faces numerous challenges while growing up in South Africa, but with the help of important friends like Hoppie, Doc, and Geel Piet, he overcomes the odds of his circumstances, making the story both charming and inspiring.
Before my life started properly, I was doing the usual mewling and sucking, which in my case occurred on a pair of huge, soft black breasts. In the African tradition I continued to suckle for my first... - #6
'The Steam Pig' by James McClure is a police procedural set in apartheid-era South Africa, focusing on the unique partnership between white Lieutenant Kramer and his black Bantu Sergeant Zondi. The book delves into the daily realities of life under apartheid, showcasing the tensions between different races and the complexities of social relations during that time. McClure's writing style is noted for its rawness, evoking a sense of darkness and banality within the apartheid system, while also incorporating elements of mystery and twists that emerge naturally from the setting.
But business stayed good. It helped, having a name that had an alphabetical right to head the list of funeral directors in the Yellow Pages. And having a telephone number like 77007. Five digits—not a... - #7
Indecent Exposure by Tom Sharpe is a darkly humorous novel that satirizes the apartheid era in South Africa. The book follows a bungling South African police force navigating through chaotic situations in an apartheid-held state. Tom Sharpe's writing style is described as witty, original, and politically incorrect, with real laugh-out-loud moments that involve exploding ostriches and absurdly hilarious scenarios. The author's ability to mix apartheid and aversion therapy in a potable manner while maintaining a midnight black misanthropy and uproarious misanthropy sets the tone for this comedic masterpiece.
It was Heroes Day in Piemburg and as usual the little capital of Zululand was quite unwarrantably gay. Along the streets the jacarandas bloomed unconscionably beside gardens flamboyant with azaleas wh...
(Also, see 47 recommendations for the series Piemburg ) - #8
'The World Unseen' by Shamim Sarif is a beautifully written novel set in apartheid South Africa, where two women, Amina and Miriam, find each other and navigate a forbidden love amidst a backdrop of discrimination, hatred, and violence. The story delves into the challenges faced by the Indian community, exploring themes of narrow-mindedness, prejudice, and the heavy price paid by those who dare to be different. Through captivating prose, the author weaves a tale of love, courage, and defiance against societal norms, set against the tumultuous political landscape of 1950s South Africa.
The narrative skillfully intertwines the personal journeys of Amina and Miriam with broader themes of repression, expression, courage, and integrity. As the women grapple with their feelings and strive to break free from oppressive societal constraints, the story evolves into a poignant exploration of tradition, defiance, and the power of choice in the face of adversity.
Even lying on the roof,with only the cheap slates in her line of vision, she could tell that it was apolice car. There was a carelessness in the skid of the tyres over the sandyroad, and in the way th... - #9
Devil's Peak by Deon Meyer is the first book in the Benny Griessel series, introducing readers to a brilliantly plotted police procedural with a gripping storyline set in post-apartheid South Africa. The novel follows Detective Inspector Benny Griessel, a complex character battling alcoholism while trying to navigate the challenges of policing in a corrupt society. The book weaves together multiple storylines, including that of Thobela Mpayipheli, a vigilante seeking justice for victims of abuse, and Christine, whose past as a prostitute comes to light. Meyer's writing style effortlessly captures the essence of South Africa, portraying landscapes and townships with authenticity and depth.
He replaced the object in the carton, retracted his hands, leaving the flaps open. He sat again, taking a deep breath as if he wanted to compose himself and then looked up at her. What was he thinking... - #10
'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 ...