Homebru 2022 - Not the same old story

“ Not the same old story.”

Home bru

DOUBLE FANATICS POINTS ON ALL HOMEBRU TITLES 01 - 31 MAY 2022

Introduction

Introduction home noun - the place where one lives permanently, especially as a member of a family

bru

Books like Milner, the Boer War in Colour, New History of South Africa, Spoilt Ballots and Stop Me If You Can are some which offer a look at history through a fresh, 21st-century lens.

Here Be Dragons and Masters of Money excavate the opportunities in business.

/bru / slang - [brew] a mixture of events, people, or things which interact to form a more potent whole - [bru] brother, comrade, friend

Truth to power is shouted by authors like Jackie Phamotse and Haji Mohamed Dawjee in the hope of creating a brighter future.

Homebru is always a highlight of the Exclusive Books calendar. It gives us the opportunity to focus on and celebrate homegrown written and published books, and shine the spotlight on South African writers and their writing, with no distractions, for a full month.

Unsung heroes that haven’t yet been given their due are now celebrated in Goodnight Golda and Mensches in the Trenches.

The Homebru theme – not the same old story – has become synonymous with what our local writing is about. A remarkable selection of history, fiction, memoirs, current affairs, and children’s books on our most pressing and relevant topics, from identity to feminism and self-love, corruption to corporates, and everything in between – incisiveness, humour, self-reflection, and hope abound.

What many of the Homebru titles do is encourage us to deepen our understanding, and then reinvent or reframe the narrative, finding a story that serves us now. These Homebru books reflect, in all different ways, the tremendous resilience of South Africans, their humour, and grit.

In Ghetto Ninja and Too White to be Coloured, Too Coloured to be Black, real life is illuminated.

New heroes and quintessential South African characters, like Wanda the Brave, Lerato Morolong in Two Tons O’ Fun, the Chasing Marian quartet, and Sally Andrew's Tannie Maria entertain and inspire us.

Now 25 years old, Homebru 2022 is not the same old story, but a mirror and a window into South Africa where we are, where we have been, and where we can go.

e m Ho u r b

Fiction FICTION two tons o’ fun

Chasing Marian

Fred Khumalo

Amy Heydenrych, Qarnita Loxton, Pamela Power, Gail Schimmel

ISBN: 9781415210888

R297

ISBN: 9781770107601

A visual treat for the mind’s eye - a truly rich and humorous, vibrant coming-of-age South African story, that sees a young woman uncover her skill as a writer, explore her sexuality, travel, and finally understand her mother. A literal and figurative meeting of past and present in all its facets.

IN CONVERSATION WITH Damon Galgut

R306

Calling all Marian Keyes fans! Four strangers, two cities, one chance online meeting. What could these four strangers possibly have in common? You guessed it- complete love for Marian Keyes!

Desperate to meet her (who isn’t?!) they come up with a mad-cap plan. Will they succeed?

Damon Galgut’s 2021 Booker Prize-winning novel, The Promise, is as much an ode to mortality as it is an echo of South African fortitude and complexity, whilst entrusting its reader with familial catharsis and a robust narrative.

The Promise weaves the memory of time through its dynamic storylines. How are the voices of your characters born?

You can hear them singing a way off in the distance, if you keep your ears tuned. Just a matter of recording the lyrics.

‘’I see us as recorders of a particular moment, rather than agents of change” was a statement you articulated in a recent interview when expressing the essence of a novel.

How would you ‘record’ the turbulence of the world witnessed and felt over the past two years?

The world is too big; you can only hope to get an impression of some small corner or pocket somewhere. If you mean the South African world, what speaks more loudly than the violent unrest in the middle of last year, with all the desperation and chicanery behind it?

The book cover of The Promise holds a great deal of emotion; you are immediately drawn into the iris of the eye, and then into the pupil- almost foreshadowing the depth of the greater symbolism laced within its pages. How was this cover chosen?

Best speak to Chatto & Windus, my publishers in the U.K. They found the image and showed it to me, and we all agreed it was the right one. The girl’s eye has the same effect as the lens of a camera, focused outward, recording THE Promise what it observes. Since then, Damon Galgut she’s been used on several other covers too in different ways, including ISBN: 9781415210581 here in South Africa.

Which book(s) have you recently enjoyed?

The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen. Transit by Rachel Cusk.

What advice could you share for up and coming writers?

Get out while you still can. But if you’re too far gone, abandon yourself all the way – you may as well go down with all the fireworks popping.

1

R308

“Name the time and place”, a saying easily thrust into the ether.

Galgut delicately sews the fabric of South African time and lived experience through the voices, foreground and hum of politic in his award-winning book, that follows four stories centred on a family funeral.

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Jackie Phamotse

Jackie Phamotse is well known for her bestselling BARE series. Her books are embraced amongst her readers as they engage with the BARE hashtag, mobilising her influence and storytelling. She is a vocal and vibrant social activist and philanthropist, using her narrative to raise awareness.

“I was not born to conform or cower” is your very own quote displayed on your social media bio. How was this power-packed mantra born?

Over the years I have faced so many difficult moments; from being bullied to having severe self-doubt that almost led to me never writing again. I found myself thinking how can I be so weak? There came a point that I told myself that I will never give up on my dreams because of people, and I began filling myself up with positive affirmations to remind myself how important my work is. When you write books that are like mine, you get treated like an outsider and sometimes people fail to see through your teachings and they begin to attack you, so I focus on my true intentions and keep going.

How do you think that using your storytelling through the BARE series, chronicles and sheds light on the more ‘tip-toed’ around heavier and grittier subjects, and propels difficult conversations which in turn can shift the ideologies of society?

Thank God for storytelling, for many years no one wanted to touch the topics that I speak about. I have been told that I will get killed, blacklisted and my books will get banned - but I am still here. I am grateful that I fought to tell the truth, to help many others overcome so many societal problems. Many parents have serious difficulties with their kids, drug infested communities, human trafficking, sugar daddies that are destroying the youth, cults and churches that have scammed people in the name of God. My writing brings all of these themes alive; people can find themselves in the stories and in the process, find healing and enlightenment. The BARE series was designed to educate and give hope. The series is raw and gives light to so many hidden truths, but the series is a first of its kind. It made people talk, question and revaluate their lives. What’s important in storytelling is leaving room for self-actualisation and hope.

You recently published a children’s series: LIWA, which highlights threads of social issues and injustices, with scenarios that spot the problem, and offer the steps to identify and vocalize methods of accountability. What inspired this series and the expansion of your readership?

The LIWA kids book series was inspired by the BARE series. Many people asked if I could write a book that deals with different topics for kids. I remember how I grew up and the books that I wished I had when I was young.

Books that spoke to my actual reality. Kids are dealing with bullying and low self-esteem because of our broken communities. The rise of social media topics like body positivity can create a lot of self-doubt in kids and I thought it would be important to address these topics in a light and fun away. The books are educational, yet light-hearted and interactive. Kids will find them easy to remember.

Jackie Phamotse

What are some of the exciting projects that you are currently working on?

I am currently working on another book, it’s LIWA and the Bloody Connectors, PART 2 of LIWA (Adult version) and I have something in the pipeline on TV. We have been working on this project for years and I am glad that it’s finally happening. I will be involved in more book festivals this year. It feels good to have our lives back again. Most of my new projects will be around rehabilitating the youth from social ills.

Bare IV: mercy ISBN: 9780620989046

R333

Jackie Phamotse is back with a bang, and leaving the agenda BARE for those who seek to find it! Following the thread of Treasure’s story and unravelling syndicates, cults, global social ills and scandals- a spotlight is shed on a story inspired by real-life events.

Monster

For You, I’d Steal A Goat

ISBN: 9780795802485

ISBN: 9780795710223

Die laaste voerings van oudpolisiespeurder Carl Bester se lewe torring los, en hy sluit aan by die Kaapse tak van Mercurius, ’n CIA-steunpilaar.

Saoediese agente en ’n siellose mesmoordenaar is maar twee van die monster se vele tentakels wat Carl een-een moet afkap

A mosaic of humour, plot-twists, city and township life, paired with social inequality, injustice, corruption and strong themes of gender and sexuality, Niq Mhlongo delivers yet another piercing, poignant and mastered collection of stories rooted in the soul of South African experience.

Niq Mhlongo

Rudie van Rensburg

R328

R272

White Chalk

THE Man Who Loved Crocodile Tamers

Terry-Ann Adams ISBN: 9781431432349

Finuala Dowling

A glowing collection of short and powerful stories that illuminate everyday trials and tribulations, set against the backdrop of Eldorado Park; from the kindred innocence of what to wear to a matric ball, to the heavy sadness of loss.

ISBN: 9780795709630

R226

R338

Cue the crocodile tears for this is an enchanting yet complex recollection!

Recounting her father’s life - Gina discovers love, family, fear and the banishing of fear. A celebration of strong women and a defence of a ‘nervous’ man!

“O, Romeo,

Romeo!

Wherefore art thou, Romeo?

” Leaving now now.

- William Shakespeare

3

The saying, “Food for Thought” has never echoed louder than when speaking of a Sally Andrew Tannie Maria story!

Sally Andrew introduces us to the vivacious Tannie Maria, who writes as boldly as the flavours her recipes produce. She is the (fictional) Klein Karoo Gazette’s resident advice columnist armed with words of wisdom and a lip-smacking concoction.

We asked Tannie Maria for some advice concerning a broken heart:

The Milk Tart Murders Sally Andrew

ISBN: 9781415210628

R297

What does a good pinch of wit and wisdom, a tantalizing recipe and a sleuthing inclination all have in common?

Tannie Maria of course! Jessie and Tannie Maria are back at it with milk tart at the ready; food is a powerful incentive to get people to talk...

OXTAIL STEW RECIPE: (Serves 4) 1 kg oxtail, separated into joints by your butcher 2 T cake flour 2 t salt 1 t freshly ground black pepper 2 T vegetable oil 2 large onions, finely chopped 2 leeks, sliced into 1 cm rings 8–9 carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks 2 sticks celery, cut into 2 cm pieces 6 whole cloves 12 whole peppercorns 2 bay leaves ½ t dried thyme 1 clove garlic, crushed 2 cups red wine ½ cup soy sauce 2–3 cups boiling water 1–2 T cornflour mixed with milk or melted butter, if needed 1 x 400 g can whole cherry tomatoes A handful of fresh Italian parsley, washed and chopped

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Sally Andrew

It is no secret that Tannie Maria’s words of response are heartfelt, punchy and exactly what is needed!

Where does your inspiration come from when creating the Dear Tannie Maria scenario and counsel?

I listen to my heart and Maria's heart, I put the answer into words from her mouth, and speak them from the place we both live in, the Karoo wilds.

There has been much excitement around the small screen adaptation of the first novel in the Tannie Maria series: Recipes for Love and Murder, which boasts eccentric characters, spirited dialogue and sparky wit, imbued with the energy of the Karoo landscape. How was the whole experience of bringing a story on paper to life on screen?

Method:

I am honoured to be a part of this amazing creation. To have inspired something that has allowed hundreds of people to collectively contribute to a new and joyful TV series. I cannot take credit for its excellence, however.

That goes to the producers and their team. I write the books, they make the films. I had a fun week in Prince Albert where they allowed me to sit in on some of the filming process, and even play a role as an 'extra'.

1. Preheat your oven to 140 °C. 2. Remove any large pieces of fat from the oxtail.

3. Mix the flour with the salt and black pepper, and use this to dust the oxtail.

4. Heat the oil in a large pan, and fry the oxtail pieces until well browned on all sides. You might have to do this in batches so as not to crowd the pan. Remove the oxtail from the pan and set aside.

5. Add all the vegetables to the pan and sauté, stirring until they are soft and golden.

6. Put the vegetables in a large casserole pot and add the oxtail.

7. Add the cloves, peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme and garlic.

8. Add the wine, soy sauce and enough boiling water to cover the meat.

9. Cover the casserole and put it in the oven. Cook until the meat is tender, but not yet falling off the bone. This will take about 3 hours in the oven. Or, after 1 hour, you can put the casserole in the hotbox for 2-3 hours.

10. If the gravy seems too thin, make a slurry with cornflour and a splash of milk or melted butter, and stir into the stew. (Start with 1 T cornflour and add as needed.)

11. Add the tomatoes and cook for a further 30 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.

12. Skim off excess fat, and garnish with lots of fresh parsley.

13. Serve with mashed potatoes.

The Milk Tart Murders was just released in March, bringing with it a new trail of mystery. Do you have any particular character - across any of your books who is a personal favourite?

In addition to Maria? I love Zaba, she's so forthright. And Ricus is adorable. And Jessie is so feisty and such a great friend. And Hattie is delightful. And Henk is divine. And Piet is so sharp. And Regardt is lovely. Hmm ... seems like it's tricky to pin one down. My favourites do ebb and peak. At the moment, my favourite is actually Mildred the goat.

Dorothy Day declared that, “Food for the body is not enough. There must be food for the soul”. This is exemplified in Tannie Maria’s recipe matchmaking.

Have you always had a love for food creation? What are some of your favourite food experiences?

Don't confuse me with Tannie Maria. She is the expert, and it's my job to find her 15 moan-out-loud recipes to put at the end of each novel. I've enjoyed inventing delicious and unusual recipes. With lots of help from friends who are expert cooks, and dozens of experiments. That Venus Cake!

With buttermilk, chocolate-coffee ganache and a layer of peanut-butter and apricot jam. (From Tannie Maria and the Satanic Mechanic). And in this latest book, the divine pale-green spekboom ice-cream, the amazing marmalade muesli rusks, and the sublime naartjie milk tart. You've got to try them. Really, you must!

Tips Use a ladle to gently skim off the excess fat on top of the stew, or soak it up with a slice or two of bread.

Otherwise, just drop an ice block or two into the stew.

The fat will congeal around the cold ice, which you then take out. (You can keep the fat to flavour future dishes.)

Stews taste even better if cooked the day before. In this case, you will not need to skim off the fat, as it will congeal into a layer, which is then easily removed.

Reheat the stew on the hob, not in the oven.

5

Memoir MEMOIR Unforgiven

Witnessing

ISBN: 9781776191888

ISBN: 9780795710476

What would it take to achieve redemption? For the victim, the perpetrator and the country? A searing, intimate exposition tracing the author’s attempt to reveal the truth about her father’s murder, even if that entails coming face-to-face with the murderer’s family, and the murderer himself.

Harrowing, emotional and inspiring! A young Rwandan boy who witnessed his country’s genocide, fled his home in search of a better future, and went on to become a successful businessman in South Africa. From car-guard to Mandela-Rhodes alum, Pie-Pacifique’s journey is one of self-discovery and grit.

Pie-Pacifique Kabalira-Uwase

Liz McGregor

R277

R302

Love and Above

Too white to be Coloured, Too Coloured to be Black

Sarah Bullen

ISBN: 9780624093008

R297

Ismail Lagardien

A kaleidoscope of ritual, ceremony and spiritual awakening. While in a coma, Sarah travels through near-death and into other realms and worlds. She comes back with a message and a spark to follow – to choose joy over fear; it becomes a roadmap, allowing her to rewrite her future.

ISBN: 9781990973420

R297

Ghetto Ninja

Magda

ISBN: 9780624093190

ISBN: 9781776096664

A wealth of honest stories that examine the making of a soccer sensation. Junior Khanye cycled between poverty and prosperity, from being scouted for Kaizer Chiefs at just 17, to taking a detour down a self-destructive path. More than just a sports biography, Ghetto Ninja is a salute to all those who have conquered their darkest times.

A pool of intuitive wisdom and business expertise - Magda Wierzycka had to fight an uphill battle or a full-scale war to achieve success. A fascinating story that will encourage you to speak up, speak out, lean in, break out, and ultimately empower yourself to not only survive in life and business, but also thrive.

Nikolaos Kirkinis

R257

A unique and brilliant read with a hybrid narrative, blending memoir with social commentary and political analysis! As a photographer, journalist, academic and columnist, the author forces a conversation between the present and the past of a country wracked by racial injustice, whilst grappling with the idea of “home” and belonging.

Magda Wierzycka

R308 6

Now You Know How Mapetla Died

Holding My Breath: Further exploits of an ER doctor

Zikhona Valela ISBN: 9780624091875

R297

Anne Biccard

A shocking and necessary testimony layered with historic significance, and tragic injustice. Mapetla Mohapi was a leading member of the Black Consciousness Movement, and the first to die in detention in 1976. A compelling mapping of the politics of the time, the convergence of activists and their stories of fate and protest.

ISBN: 9781431432363

Move aside Grey’s Anatomy! Anne, along with her patients, takes us into the belly of the beast, sharing heartbreakingly funny, shocking behind-the-scenes, and scalpel-sharp medical accounts from the inception of lockdown and throughout. A book littered with indomitable human persistence in spite of the chaotic pandemic-stricken whirlwind.

R246

A Perspective From

Haji Mohamed Dawjee

What does it mean to be South African?

In the name of the gold mines, we, as South Africans, have had a massive heap of trash to get through. Colonialism, also known as the British taking our money; Apartheid, also known as more white people, this time South African, taking our money; Democracy, also known as “gone in the blink of a ’94 Rainbow Nation poster”; the pillaging of our coffers by the Guptas and an entire capturing of state by our very own President Zuma. Honestly, if we did not have South African blood flowing through our veins, we would weep every day. But to be South African is to hold back the tears and cope through laughter.

And we are damn good at it. Don’t get me wrong, human rights abuses, violence, looting, and putting the lives of others at risk, is no laughing matter - but we have become gold medalists in weaponising humour as a coping mechanism. Our sense of humour and sometimes, the sheer daftness of our society that literally hands the joke to us without us having to make it, is what truly makes me feel that I would be beyond bored if I lived anywhere else in the world.

We are the only people in the world whose news-cycle can, on any given day, be a blooper reel that takes years and years for other countries to stitch together.

Let me take you back to the mass looting and highly perilous civil unrest of 2021. Of course, we’re not barbarians. We recognise the damage, the sadness, the loss of lives and income. But when it becomes too much, we seek out the jokes. Like laughing at the man who spent way too much time trying to stick a (stolen) cinema-sized flat screen TV into the backseat of his too-small car. I still have no idea whether he thought forcing it in would shrink the size of the TV or increase the size of his car. Or the white couple in their pyjamas sneaking into KFC amidst the noise and mayhem to get a bucket of the Colonel’s fried chicken. Priorities people.

Priorities. And other than stealing chicken or throwing cooking oil on the floor to prevent other people from getting to the high-end items in big box stores before you do, their arms and legs flailing about, our biggest priority, our biggest and most definable and meaningful characteristic is our humour.

Here's The Thing

Haji Mohamed Dawjee ISBN: 9781770107922

R318

Comedic, controversial and contemplative. A new collection of thought-provoking essays, with touching insights into the growing pains of parenthood, the ties to our family, evolving modern culture, defying ageism and the countless quirky metaphors for life.

7

To be South African means to be able to laugh.

And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Business BUSINESS Take Charge

Brandalism

ISBN: 9781776192007

ISBN: 9781990931635

There are ‘many ways to skin a cat’! With this mind-set, Nyimpini has compiled a toolkit, infused with on-the-job experience, practical advice, and positive affirmation to boost your business acumen and assist your climb to the top.

“Life is short. Play naked!” - Sharman philosophises rewriting the rules, and in Brandalism, he underlines (in his trademark, comedic way) the fundamental need for businesses to dismantle, and vandalise, their perceived public-facing persona. It’s a fresh wakeup call to business, emphasising a manifesto over a purpose.

Mike Sharman

Nyimpini Mabunda

R318

R287

Genius

Masters of Money

ISBN: 9781770107564

ISBN: 9781776191574

How do we thrive in an increasingly complex, fast-paced and divisive global environment? Genius answers this loaded question with stories documenting extraordinary individuals, companies and industries whose ideas, products and raw materials solve problems and add value across the globe.

What makes MTN, Investec, Discovery, Nando’s and Woolworths (just to name a few), the most JSE-listed and top-tiered companies in South Africa? Masters of Money interviews 31 CFOs who are dominating SA’s business scene, sharing insights, strategy, effective skills and the X-factor needed to rise to the top.

Bruce Whitfield

R348

Here Be Dragons

Richard Mulholland ISBN: 9781920707231

R267

Stop telling stories, start selling them. The magic happens not when we tell our customers the story of our past, but when we sell them a new story of their future. A highly practical ‘what-to-do’ book with the agenda to evolve mind-sets, drive sales, and solve problems.

KC Rottok Chesaina

R287

“ Hey, Boo.”

State of the nation.

- Harper Lee

8

IN CONVERSATION WITH Mike Sharman

Mike Sharman along with his company, Retroviral, is amongst South Africa’s leading communication corporations. He strives to revolutionise business models, and shatter the ceiling of operations through creative activism; he is a 21st century visionary – edgy, futuristic and on the pulse.

‘Brandalism’ directly translates to ‘Branding Vandalism’, which is a global revolt against the commercialisation of culture, art and space. How do you pair this ideal to the manifesto of your book, Brandalism?

I see myself as an entertainer as opposed to an ad/Mad Man. I have the best job in the world – the brands who commission us are tapping into our ability to tell stories that convert to viral hits or sensations. Brandalism is an anti-advertising movement to communicate authentically and without the plastic veneers of perfection. I live the wabi sabi, perfect imperfection approach, where 'done is better than perfect' and I am committed to vandalising advertising's current status quo. We have pioneered social campaigns across the spectrum – from Unfluencers to Influencers.

Business structures have been forced to change due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

What positive changes have you seen in your own business in comparison to before lockdown?

Globalisation has been my favourite upside of lockdown. In 2014 we did a product roadshow in Manhattan. We were treated less favourably and looked down upon as 'South African tech' and not 'Silicon Valley tech’. Fast forward to 2020 we launched a digital platform for athletes that has been adopted across several countries and continents – from emerging to developed markets because we had access to Zoom and Teams. Not once has anyone said 'how cute, tech from South Africa'.

Social media platforms are leading the e-commerce engagement and growth profiles in business, whilst giving rise to a new wave of generational influence and reach. This is evident on applications such as TikTok where users literally embody their brand. Why do you think that content is so pertinent to business vitality?

Content is king. Audience is queen. Humans gravitate towards stories. When our ancestors lived in caves, we used drawings to story-tell. We then upgraded to serial radio shows, and finally we are now in an age of the stream dream. Stories create affinity with something; drive stickiness and there is resonance with the bite-sized content you share as a mirror of your interests and personality. There are more channels than ever for dissemination due to WhatsApp and TikTok’s algorithm geared for greater social reach.

What do you think the pillars in any business model should be?

There are something like 26 Ps nowadays. When I was at varsity there were six: product, price, place, promotion, people, and presentation – I prefer these as a structure of the mission critical components, in order to launch a product or service.

The ‘social game’ is an effective and traditional networking tool for building client relations. How do you think digital communication has enhanced this understanding?

Far too often we neglect the soft skills – the relationship builders, the interpersonal communication touchpoints. Digital has offered up more conduits for connecting the dots, and if you're willing to surf and ride the associated digital waves, you can leverage this to bootstrap and build a successful business with a smartphone and a laptop (speaking from personal experience).

What do you think the DNA of business relations will consist of in the next 10 years?

We are constantly mindful of our own businesses – the DNA of client relationships will comprise suppliers knowing their partners' businesses as intimately as their own. We need to become the strategist to our closest clients – consider new revenue streams and options they haven't even considered. This is how we become indispensable.

What sets South Africa apart on the global marketing forum?

Our humour and our resilience. When shit is on fire around us, we send memes of illustrated dogs saying 'Everything is fine'.

9

History & HISTORY & Current Affairs CURRENT AFFAIRS Die Anglo-Boereoorlog in Kleur

Spoilt Ballots

ISBN: 9781776191772

ISBN: 9781776096374

Tonele en rolspelers uit die Anglo-Boereoorlog kry nuwe lewe in hierdie unieke versameling foto’s wat lewensgetrou ingekleur is. Dit bring vars perspektief op een van die belangrikste historiese gebeurtenisse in die Suid-Afrikaanse geskiedenis.

Entertaining and impeccably researched, Spoilt Ballots lifts the lid on 200 years of electoral dysfunction in this beloved nation, pin-pointing influential periods in history. It is as much about the people who voted in some of our most decisive elections, as it is about those who didn’t even get the chance to make their mark.

Matthew Blackman and Nick Dall

Tinus Le Roux

R358

R308

Also available in English

Nuclear

Milner

ISBN: 9780624087144

ISBN: 9781776191789

Heard about South Africa's controversial nuclear deal? Insider accounts, audio recordings, confidential minutes of Eskom’s board meetings, Zuma administration's secret dealings with Russia, and so much more is unpacked in this explosive read!

A public servant of the late Victorian era, and one of Britain’s most famous – or notorious - empire builders who left an indelible imprint on the history of South Africa. Milner was primarily, though not solely, responsible for the Anglo-Boer War.

Karyn Maughan & Kirsten Pearson

R328

Richard Steyn

R318

Nuwe geskiedenis van Suid-Afrika

Stop Me If You Can

ISBN: 9780624092315

ISBN: 9780620973281

Hermann Giliomee

Paul O'Sullivan

Dié nuwe, opgedateerde uitgawe van Suid-Afrika se geskiedenis sluit bydraes in deur gerekende geskiedkundiges en navorsers, wat die storie van ons land en mense reg tot op datum bring. Die boek begin by die onstaan van die mensdom, Coming End May slawe, die pre-koloniale tyd, segregasie en verset, die oorgang na demokrasie asook die dinamika van die nuwe samelewing.

R358

R368

Also available in English

10

A story of a man who, against all odds and at immense personal cost, refused to give up on his quest to turn the tide against corruption. While many of these criminals still walk freely among us today, they will all be held accountable for what they have done – O’Sullivan will make sure of that.

1 Recce, volume 3

Mensches in the Trenches

ISBN: 9780624088851

ISBN: 9780620946940

In hierdie laaste boek van die spanningsvolle trilogie oor 1 Recce, voer Strachan die leser saam op nagtelike seewaartse operasies tot in die hart van Luanda, deur moerasse in Mosambiek met stinkende modder wat jou vassuig en uiteindelik tot in die Grensoorlog se finale veldslag. Dit is 'n boek vol spanning, adrenalien, hoogdrama en onvergeetlike vertellings.

Also available in English

A noteworthy spotlight on unrecorded stories outlining the essential role Jewish activists, and the Jewish community, played in bringing freedom and justice to South Africa against the entrenchment of white power and privilege, during the Apartheid regime.

Jonathan Ancer

Alexander Strachan

R328

R287

Op Die Duiwel Se Spoor

Ben Booysen, Nicki Gules ISBN: 9781990973468

R287

In Op die Duiwel se Spoor, geskryf in samewerking met die Sunday Times-joernalis Nicki Gules, neem Booysen die leser tot agter die grusame skerms van die satanistiese moorde, en onthul skokkende besonderhede van polisie-onbeheptheid. Nuwe, sensasionele inligting word verskaf oor die ‘Krugersdorp-moordenaars’, hul misdade en lewe in die tronk.

Also available in English

“ Gatsby believed in the green light.”

the taxi didn’t believe in the red.

- F. Scott Fitzgerald

11

IN CONVERSATION WITH

Batya Bricker

Word-lover, avid reader, spiritual-seeker, Torah teacher, publisher-author, crazy crafter, mom of three- Batya Bricker also happens to be GM Books and Brand for Exclusive Books!

You have recently returned from the iconic London Book Fair. What can you share about the South African literature presence there?

South Africa was well represented at London Book Fair this year – with many publishers grabbing the opportunity of open skies to reconnect with ‘zoom faces’. There was certainly a buzz about the fair, with attendees cautiously optimistic about the return to business as usual. The biggest concerns are around distribution and production costs, such as the price of paper, etc in the face of the war in Ukraine.

How was the experience of taking Goodnight Golda international?

Introducing Goodnight Golda on an international stage has been a whirlwind – it is gratifying to discover that your work resonates with readers other than those at home! One of the highlights of the launch event was having Goodnight-Golda-girl Helen Suzman’s daughter attend - I was honoured to meet her and pay tribute to her mother’s contribution in person.

We have to acknowledge the illustrators, who heroed and amplified the energy of these phenomenal women. How were these illustrations conceptualised?

In the conventional publishing process, a story is written and then handed to illustrators to capture in pictures.

More than simply a publishing project, the making of Goodnight Golda was a 3-year conversation. Writer Ilana Stein and illustrators Mary-Anne van der Byl and Ronel Pienaar were my discussants, and we debated (sometimes heatedly!) everything about who we featured and why, what we considered brave, the nature of each woman’s unique contribution to the world. Sometimes, in exploring her story, the illustration came before the text and informed the writing, sometimes the other way around. It was a very collaborative process, and we used both the words and pictures to brainstorm and distill our ideas.

Batya Bricker with Frances Jowell, daughter of Helen Suzman (One of the inspiring ladies featured in Goodnight Golda).

When researching for Goodnight Golda, you were presented with a plethora of interpersonal knowledge and anecdotes. What was the process of translating these complex life stories for a younger audience?

In each case, despite the complexities and nuances of context and characters, we tried to capture one key idea per lady and focus on that. We also tried, in the diversity of characters from different corners of the world and time-frames in history, to represent the full gamut of the Jewish experience, from biblical times till today, its highs and lows. Inevitably then, it covers some rather dark chapters in our history, holocaust, pogroms, depression…often laced with complexities like politics, religion and socio-economics. Fellow South African writer Sally-Ann Partridge gave me brilliant advice on not getting caught up in this minefield – “it must always be about the person, not the politics.” When we focused on that, we could always find the relatable human story - with takeout learnings for a 21st-century reader.

What striking fact did you unearth during your research?

One of the striking truths that emerged from researching and writing this book was that despite the focus of achievements by Jewish women, the values, lessons and admirable qualities are universal. These are tales of triumph, no matter the circumstances, that can inspire girls, boys and adults from all walks of life.

Is there any specific woman from Goodnight Golda that you relate to the most?

Ask me today who my favourite Goodnight Golda woman is, and tomorrow it will be different! When compiling a roll-call of Jewish heroines, there are names you’d expect to see – Hannah Senesh, Anne Frank, Dona Gracia, but it was the unexpected ladies I met along the way that offered the most delight, such as Pramila, the first Bollywood star who was also a Jewish woman!

What do you hope that Goodnight Golda offers its readers, and what have you learnt about yourself through your writing practice?

Goodnight Golda was my journey through fearlessness – what it looks like, smells like, and feels like. Each woman’s story forced me to confront what I think, what I believe, what I want…For many, Covid, lockdown and the deep uncertainty changed the way we look and relate to the world. Goodnight Golda, my ever-faithful companion over this tumultuous time, was a source of amusement, education, comfort and inspiration. I hope that this is what it will bring to readers too.

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Goodnight Golda

Batya Bricker with Ilana Stein ISBN: 9780620927819

R338

Some use their wits, others their looks, some their talent, others their perspective. Trailblazers, achievers, visionaries and preservers of faith that have shaped our reality- here are 32 Jewish women who have shaped history.

This is a book for the future heroines of the Jewish people, and beyond!

Children’s CHILDREN’S Wanda the Brave

My First African Adventure

Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni

Riaan Manser with Murray Williams and Chantal Tarling

ISBN: 9781431431687

ISBN: 9781776353729

R195

The first person to circumnavigate Africa by bicycle? Riaan Manser conquered that milestone! The toil, excitement and occasional terror of his journey, captured from his departure in 2003 to his return home at the end of 2005, is colourfully and tangibly illustrated, chronicling his lows and piques (pun-intended).

R134

Also available in: Afrikaans, isiXhosa, IsiZulu

Sal 'n skilpad op jou piepie?

A Gold Star for Faizel

ISBN: 9781776353576

ISBN: 9781431432035

Dis walglik – maar dis waar! Wees gewaarsku – hierdie boek is propvol feite wat jou kan naar maak en laat gril! Wat is ’n snotblom? Hoe groot was ’n T-rex se poef? Word gril-gril slim en ontdek die grieselige kant van die natuur met hierdie prettige boek.

Faizel goes to school for the first time! Did he enjoy it? Did he share his love of nature and his wonder for the stars with his classmates? A gentle, whimsical story about a Muslim boy who speaks Afrikaans, with morals of kindness and forgiveness.

Jaco Jacobs

R139

Rafiek Mammon

R134

Also available in: Afrikaans, isiXhosa, IsiZulu

Wonderfully Made

Tshwanelo Serumola ISBN: 9781776251179

R155

Meet Wanda, with her glorious head of hair. Aunty Ada wants her to straighten her hair, but Wanda and her friend stand strong in the face of this challenge. A bold, zesty celebration of girl power, with a reminder that courage and friendship is a mighty force!

Brown girls are risk takers, move makers and planet shakers; we can be scientists, artists, engineers or any other kind of pioneer! Dream big with this empowering and inspiring book of positive affirmations for brown girls of all shades, sizes and shapes.

Also available in: isiXhosa, IsiZulu, Setswana

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“The great fish swam slowly.”

Catch of the day met tjippies.

- Peter Benchley

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What have you found to be a truly What have you found to be a truly unique south african experience? unique South African experience?

“ “

Sitting on a stoep, with koffie en beskuit, enjoying the view of the Karoo.”

–Sally Andrew

“

The South African writing community is small and as a result uniquely warm, welcoming and supporting. It is this unique South African attitude that has led to the group of us becoming friends, and had led to the warm welcome that Chasing Marian has received in the South African writing and reading community.”

–Amy Heydenrych, Qarnita Loxton, Pamela Power, Gail Schimmel

Somewhat ironically, what I believe is the uniquely South African experience is that there is no single South African experience. Diversity is really in focus around the world right now and I believe we are in a position to showcase what we’ve achieved in embracing diversity as a nation.

I was born in a former homeland in 1976 and that was as separate a life from other races and cultures as you could imagine. My generation grew up divided from each other, yet despite the complications we were able to become a democratic nation where peoples, cultures and languages co-exist peacefully. I have found a high level of cooperation and reconciliation in all the organisations in which I’ve led teams. This is partly because we are connected on many fronts. As an example, South Africa’s hosting of world cups in three sports – soccer, rugby and cricket – is unique and shows that we embrace the same interests.

“

“

South Africa is even diverse in its geological features, landscapes and climates. From the Drakensberg to the Kalahari, from the Mpumalanga bushveld to the tropical KwaZulu-Natal coastline, we have much more to enjoy and offer to visitors than most other countries. That’s unique and it should continue to be our selling point, our focus. I believe diversity makes us stronger, not weaker.”

–Nyimpini Mabunda

“

That South Africa believe that they will get the work done even after the world has written it off.”

–Hermann Giliomee

Sleeping out in the open in the Umfolozi game reserve on a windless night under a starry sky.”

–Richard Steyn

The Concrete Finger It’s early in the morning and I honestly don’t have time for Johan’s stories. This will be the third time this week that he has told me about the three bullets lodged in his leg from the border, a long time ago. I hand him my keys, pull my suit over my shoulder and walk off.

“Hey man, look where you are walking.”

“Good morning, Suresh.”

No one wins when I accidently stick my hairy toes into his fish bait. It’s not the only thing that stinks on this walk. They nicknamed this place Dirtbin a few years ago. I’ve heard it been described as a super model from two decades ago who now sits weathered, with makeup running down her face. I sidestep a Simba packet. At the end of the concrete finger a young, Black family watches the waves and points at the whales. We greet like relatives, I ask if they are going to the game later, “We’ll see you there.”

I take one breath and jump off the pier, plunging into the deep blue. The young Black girl smiles and points at me, behind her, I can see the stadium. I turn and paddle, the wave lifts me, I take off and glide. The Durban sky passes by, gently holding all of us, Black and White, in its warm Sunday embrace - turning us slowly toward another day.

Bruised but beautiful. Grimy yet glorious.”

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–Nikolaos Kirkinis

“

“

Panorama Route, Mpumalanga.”

“

–Paul O’Sullivan

“

There is nothing greater than the South African sense of humour. The darker the hour, the greater our comedic insights and delivery – it’s our nation’s collective coping mechanism.”

–Mike Sharman

For me, the true South African experience can be summed up in one word Ubuntu. Greeting or starting a conversation in a bar with a stranger, inviting friends over to your house for a braai, in general, humanity towards others. All these are reflected in our writing.”

“ “

–Niq Mhlongo

“

We are always willing to learn.

South Africa keeps changing, and it’s wonderful that we are a growing nation, as we have a lot to offer. Young writers are more free to telling their unique stories.

There are so many places that one can use as inspiration. We are bold and we only seek to give more of ourselves and that comes out in our writing.”

–Jackie Phamotse

I was in Orlando Stadium on the day of Madiba's inauguration. He flew in at half time and seconds later South Africa scored. SA coach Clive Barker did a somersault, and then the entire crowd started singing Shosholoza. It was one of the most moving experiences of my entire life.

Every time I hear that song, preferably sung by a crowd, I feel crazy love for our country.”

Kaalvoet (barefoot) wildness. There is a connection to a raw wildness that comes from a land that is still untamed and people who are still connected to a richer and older way. This thread is getting thinner, as we live our adult lives out in a ‘earn and spend’ world. We wash the mud from our toes and pull on the roles of work, of parenting and of ‘being productive and important in the world’. The mud is long-forgotten.

But, when we slip off our shoes and feel the land underneath us and the hot sun on our skin, alchemy happens. Then we remember the songs and the drums and the older ways. It feels ancient and safe. It comes from a place before labels and the world of law that suggested that a close connection with the world of soul and spirits was a bad thing. I had felt it - this Africa magic dancing under ancient stars and around ritual fires during the shamanic journey of healing. I felt it again in my otherworldly travels during a long coma and soul journey. Africa has land magic and no matter how far you travel, it calls you home.”

–Sarah Bullen

I was cycling on Devil's Peak, the slopes of Table Mountain - a unique South African experience on its own. I was in a pensive mood. The mountain had just reopened after a wildfire had left it black and smouldering - and had ripped through UCT buildings - in April 2021. Table Mountain is my stomping ground and had been on the mountain the day of the blaze and had seen the wisps of smoke become a raging inferno that turned the sky apocalyptic pink. The mountain had been closed to the public for months - and like the world itself after lockdowns was slowly opening again. Now that it had reopened I was back with my bicycle. I was making my way to the King's Blockhouse, the small fort named at the top of a steep climb. I was admiring the hardy fynbos and the burnt black and silver landscape, but the sand was loose and I was slipping and sliding. Suddenly my front wheel slid out from underneath me and I went bouncing along the rocks.

My wheel was buckled. So was I. Bruised and bloodied, I had to limp home, pushing my wobbly bicycle. After a lonely 45-minute walk I came across a man on the side of the road. He looked me up and down, as if he was sizing me up. Am I now going to suffer another unique South African experience and become a crime statistic, I wondered. Instead, the man looked me up and down, shook his head sadly.

"Shame," he said.

To a non-South African, shame is just a word, but to South Africans "shame" conveys so much. In the moment, the man's "shame" was as comforting as a sympathetic hug.

–Jonathan Ancer "Thanks," I replied.

He nodded.”

–Richard Mulholland

“

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Trying (in vain) to persuade the baboon who has spotted the overflowing fruit bowl on your kitchen table to exit the premises.”

–Liz McGregor

What have you found to be a truly What have you found to be a truly unique south african experience? unique South African experience?

“

“

In South Africa we have 11 official languages and what I’ve found to be a unique experience is how people communicate in different languages, but still understand each other well. You can greet someone in your home language and they may reply in theirs.

To me that shows the beauty of our rainbow nation country. The diversity in our land is incredible. We may have different cultures and backgrounds, but we are still connected through communication, not many places around the world have that privilege, –Tshwanelo Serumola yet we do.”

“

“

I think South Africans love a good time. The culture of coming together in celebration of milestones or the festive season is unmatched and an experience you just can't miss.”

–Zikhona Valela

The South African conversation South Africa is a one-of-a-kind country with truly unique people. No other country has the sort of people we have here.

It’s not just the diversity of our nation, though, and the fact that we speak so many languages and are home to so many cultures. It’s that most of us have one attribute in common – an ability to laugh. We laugh at ourselves, at our politicians, and at each other. We laugh a lot. We have to.

It is that South African sense of humour, the ability to see the hilarity in the direst of situations, the ability to whip up, say, a meme of our president fighting with his facemask in 30 seconds flat, that makes us so special.

We find the funny, even in our darkest moments.

This irreverence is the sister spirit of our rebelliousness as a nation. We disrespect authority and follow the rules reluctantly.

We laugh and argue in 11 languages. Only in Jozi have I been able to have a conversation with an uncle at my butcher speaking English, Arabic and isiZulu – all in the same sentence.

You cannot do that anywhere else in the world.”

–Nicki Gules

“

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The most unique thing about South Africa is certainly the wonderful mix of different cultures living together in our country. And while spending a day at a busy vehicle testing centre to renew your driver’s licence can be a harrowing ordeal, it’s also a unique opportunity to experience our country’s spirit.

Under the right (or wrong!) circumstances, we have this amazing ability to reach across boundaries and connect with each other, to joke about our difficulties and differences, to lend a helping hand and listen to each other’s –Jaco Jacobs stories.”

“

South Africa is the only country I know where there is always something fascinating in current affairs. Probably the only country in Africa where the best in the world collides with the worst in the world every day!

Never a dull moment!”

–Pie-Pacifique Kabalira-Uwase

Braai vleis vuur op ‘n Saterdag middag met kole van harde hout uit die hartjie van die bosveld. Die reuk van die hout wat versoen met die reuk van die vleis op die vuur en die speserye van die boerewors bring altyd herinneringe op van geleenthede wat vir altyd afgeets is in enige suid afrikaner se geheue. Daarmee saam die klank van eg afrikaanse boeremusiek wat speel op die radio, wat uitgesaai word deur Radio Sonder Grense en die kenmerklike stem van Gerhard Viviers en Nicky van der Berg wat die rugby wedstryde en die spelers se aksies op die rugby veld volg en oordra aan luisteraars asof jy daar op die paviljoen tussen die ander toeskouers sit. Nieteenstaande alle tegnonolgie sal hierdie toneel net nie dieselfde wees in ‘n ander land.

Daarmee saam die Suid Afrikaanse son, see en strande en die klank van ‘n opregte kleurling van die Kaap wat sy kop skud vir ‘n Gautenger wat iets verkeerd doen in die Kaap en dan se “Nei jirre meneer!” dit sal jy nerens –Ben Booysen anders hoor!”

“ “ “

A braai with braaibroodjie starters, followed by lamb chops or boerewors with a side of mieliepap and home-made tomato relish. Paired with a light salad. Don't forget a Klipdrift Brandy and Coke, followed by a great dry white wine for the main meal. ”

A truly unique South African experience is a gathering of diverse cultures. I recently attended a neighbourhood potluck where we had a lady from Limpopo serve us mogodu as she explained the mysterious perceptions of her people of the Modimolle mountain in the Waterberg.

A Durbanite served us a most spicy curry as he regaled us with KZN lingo using such words as ‘ou’ which I came to learn means ‘guy’. The owners of the home, a hospitable couple originally from Nigeria, served us an outright tongue-testing egusi soup. Loaded with West African spices, it was heavy and tasty and many had to literally stop themselves from too many servings lest they lacked the abdominal expanse to have a slice of Mrs Van Der Merwe’s malva pudding. A social event with a melting pot of customs and world views is not something you can find in many countries and this is what truly makes this the rainbow nation.”

“

–Tinus le Roux

What is a unique South African experience ? You mean besides the hazard lights on our South African cars doubling up as a ’Thank You’ and your reply flash of head lights loudly excepted as ‘My Pleasure’ ?

Of course , there are plenty unique things about us.

But we South Africans, above all else, have a quality that very few nations in the world can come close to competing with. This being our rampant and often vociferous optimism and our bounce-back ability. I always tell audiences that I speak to that, “ Opportunity , just like beauty, lies firmly in the eyes of the beholder." This is what makes us unique. People have always asked me what my secret has been over the last 20 years, “How do you get the job done, every single time ?”

Besides being a believer of the idea of hard earned “luck”, the real truth behind every successful journey I have made has been the ability to stand up every time I was knocked down and even more so for me, was the conscious decision to never wallow in self pity.

We are born and raised with these qualities in our blood. Whether we believe this and apply them, well that’s entirely up to you - the beholder.

Enjoy our African story about people , wildlife, culture and of course tenacity.”

–Riaan Manser

–KC Rottok Chesaina

In Kalk Bay Main Road, an elephant approaches the pedestrian crossing and presses the button. Drivers who usually jump the red light roll to a stop and wait for the beautiful, elegant puppet that has travelled the world, but feels most at home here to make its slow traverse.

The elephant nods at its smaller brethren, wire frame sculptures of lizards and zebras, and wooden giraffe.

With a last wave and a blast of its trumpet, it enters a high-ceilinged salon where it will be feted alongside its unobtrusive operators and makers. The drivers, the curio sellers, the homeless in the nearby shelter, the fishermen, tourists, and all the deliriously happy locals, know that what they have seen. It is theirs.”

“

“

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–Finuala Dowling

Browsing one of London’s marvelous thrift stores, I overheard two decidedly South African accents commenting on an outlandish outfit on the rails, “ yislaaik, I am loving this red fur –Batya Bricker situation”.”

My truly unique South African experiences are the South African festivals that I often attend - sometimes just as attendee, many times as a judge. I am thinking of the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (the KKNK) that I had just returned from and the Suidoosterfees scheduled to take place at Artscape from 27 April - where South African artists are given the platform to perform and discuss literary and theatrical works and, more importantly, interact and network with one another. I always say, facetiously, if I had the opportunity to design heaven, it would be one long festival and celebration of the arts.”

–Rafiek Mammon

What have you found to be a truly What have you found to be a truly unique south african experience? unique South African experience?

“

“

There is nothing as unique in South Africa as an accessible to all, public space. These locations are the experience of our country’s entire people, in all their representations, all at once.

The promenade in Sea Point is, for example, a place where one can witness any part of South African society, from the elderly busker strumming his guitar and singing old Cape Malay folk songs, to the tourists from other parts of the country, to the Muslim families gathering for a picnic during Ramadan as the sun sets to break their fast, and to those who call the trees and grass and ocean their home – and often, chat to the police about the comings and goings of the area they know better than anyone else. The diversity of a functional public place is an orchestra of democracy and each chair is occupied by a different slice of society with all the unique dynamics that make for a truly South African experience. If only we had more of these spaces.”

“

“

A unique South African experience for me is incredible resilience and resourcefulness of the people of South Africa, which can be seen all around us every day.”

–Anne Biccard

When I think of uniquely South African experiences, flashbacks of my childhood come to mind. I could talk about buying 50c snacks, like wurmpies and tjoepas. I could speak about the games in the street, like rounders en blikkies.

Those experiences shaped my upbringing and made me proud to be Coloured. But those are not the quintessential South African experiences that I would put forward to answer this question.

It is a divine coincidence that this question makes it to my phone at this time. Right now, Coloured mothers all over South Africa are preparing their pickled fish with recipes handed down through generations to be ready for the Easter meal. Every family has small additions or differences in the recipe making each tub of pickled fish unique. I remember my gran making our pickle at least a week and a half before Good Friday. She made no exceptions; she had to use Cartwright's curry powder. The rest of the family, well mostly the women, would prepare other fish dishes. The tamarind fish curry is still my favourite. This is my uniquely South African experience. Coloured women connecting across time and place to make a dish that is ours. I am yet to make my own ice cream container of pickled fish but come Easter; I will be ready to partake in something bigger than me; something uniquely South African.”

–Haji Mohamed Dawjee

I always admire the problem-solving, can-do approach of South African entrepreneurs. The hustle is real from street food vendors to world leading tourism operations to globally competitive corporates across industries. That ability to hustle against the odds is a remarkable demonstration of one of our finest –Bruce Whitfield characteristics.”

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–Terry-Ann Adams

The most unique shimmering lights in the South African experience are the women leaders we have across a range of activities and institutions. Their names, selected even randomly on a list, chime like my favourite sound; the bells of the loneliest chapels in the smallest villages of Sicily: Thuli Madonsela, Sithembile Mbete, Maria Ramos, Lindiwe Mazibuko, Pumla Dineo Gqola, Phumzile van Damme, Mandisa Maya, Ferial Haffejee and Shamila Batoyi.

Collectively they are the embodiment of our Constitution. It’s flaws notwithstanding – no document or person is perfect across place and time – our Constitution gives primacy to justice and equality. It provides us with something to live up to. With these women, we can re-attain the moral high ground that people like Nelson Mandela, Albertina Sisulu and Desmond Tutu envisaged, and for which they sacrificed their lives.”

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–Ismail Lagardien

Homebru Podcasts We are ecstatic to announce the return of our Homebru - Not the same old story podcasts, with Jonathan Ancer and Lerato Sibanda.

Introduce yourself to our page-turning collection of South African wordsmiths; better yet, meet them in their own words.

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