South Africa Books

This is by far the best textbook on the South African law of delict (tort). The author has passed away, and the book will become progressively dated. It remains, however, unsurpassed for masterful exposition of principle. The juxtaposition of terse, lucid text and detailed footnotes is perfect. The book is a casebook, with extracts as its main text. But it beats monographs for an overview.

This book is a must read for the Roman and Comparative law scholar. That said, there are certain prerequisites you should meet before reading or attempting this book. First, you must know latin, since many passages appear only in latin without translation, I deem these passages to be very important for an understanding of the book. Second, it would be difficult to understand much of the book without prior coursework or reading in Roman law (preferably the Digests, Institutes and general knowledge of Roman legal society.) Third, at least one year of law school should be completed to acquaint the reader with the necessary legal fundamentals. Provided you have the right background, you will find this a very provocative and interesting work.

A gripping page turner, this is the fascinating story of a more than average life led in Ireland and Africa, in a world that no longer exists in the middle of the 20th century. Told through the eyes of the writer, this is all the more powerful because the story in it is true. Beginning with childhood living in the house of the lord of the manor in Ireland, the story shows how a life of supposed priviledge is not always an easy one. As we follow our heroine to Africa, we see how her love affair with the continent begins. A life less ordinary indeed, this gives a fascinating insight into the real world of white Africans, the complexities of living in countries full of turmoil.

Apart from anything else the book is well written and interesting, not a usual autobiography, more like travel writing, an insight into a continent and culture.

Rebeccasreads highly recommends LET ME CREATE A PARADISE GOD SAID TO HIMSELF (long title notwithstanding!) as a memoir of an extraordinary journey from one country -- South Africa -- of extreme prejudice to another -- Israel, during the 1960s & onward.

An outstanding read, packed with vibrant memories of youthful bliss, immigrant confusion, war, politics, philosophies & love, offering a unique, mature & articulate inside look into this passionate region.

I am reading this book in preparation for a trip to SA, so I cannot really rate its usefulness. However, I'd like to say that the book's general attitude, attention to detail and sound understanding of the needs of a backpacker promise that a trip with this book will be a good enough one. I have travelled a lot so far, usually using the Let's Go series, and I have always found the satisfactory. This one seems to fit into the general picture of a practical, detail-orineted, friendly guide book. 5 stars from me.

This collection of letters, by one of South Africa's leading activists, offers a direct view of the experience of a political prisoner during apartheid. Written during the author's 26 years in prison, alongside Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, the books grants the reader the rare chance to grasp the daily hardships these men endured. And yet, given Kathrada's courage, humility and humor, as well as their ultimate political victory, the book is a source of inspiration and hope.

Adrian Boshier set out into the semi-wilds of rural southern Africa as a teenager, with an encyclopedic knowledge of the local flora and fauna and a determination to escape from social contingency by foraging. As an escape attempt, his expedition failed - what he had learned from books proved inadequate in the field and he quickly began to starve. The generosity of Swazi strangers, who laid out food in remote places once they realized that he would not approach them for help, kept him alive. Eventually, he got to know his neighbors, and became a sort of cultural liason between archaeologists and the descendents of local ancients whose artifacts were riddles to the scientific community. Lyall Watson's slightly imaginative biography of this prodigal spirit is rich in anthropological detail and illustrated with simple but evocative sketches of some of the artifacts that Adrian's interviews with rural healers and magicians have helped to explain.

This is one of those rare books which attempts not only to explain the causes underlying a conflict, but also explores the psychology and culture of the participants. This book is well illustrated and easy to read. A good introduction to the topic, to be followed by Morrison's Washing of the Spears and all of Ian Knight's books.

A compilation of essays by Ms. Gordimer not to be overlooked by those of us "burnt out" on societal issues...or even personal issues. A heartfull of optimism and honesty that I found refreshing. I read this while walking my daily treadmills at the gym after my daily treadmills at my job. Often feeling weary of life's struggles, I choose to look at others's woes for distraction (usually the newspaper). Reading her thoughts and essays I couldn't help but be inspired not only by her optimism and honesty and her unflagging belief and value in people, but also her analytic mind. She's obviously not afraid to think deeply about peoples and is not afraid to "get personal". I read the book late last year and will probably pick it up again or another of hers. I quit my 19 years of successful employment in the private sector and am now considering non-profit work, thanks to Ms. Gordimer and others like her.

i could not have gotten around in cape town without this map. Thank God I had it. It made my movement in Cape Town enjoyable and easy. Easily slipped into your bag or back pocket (sticking out of course)- all landmarks are clearly marked. public transportation stations clearly marked. easy to follow. don't go without this map.