Paula explores her ‘Shadow Self’
A recently published book by Human and Rousseau, Shadow Self, was written by Paula Marais, who grew up and went to school in Alberton. The RECORD recently spoke to her about her life in Alberton, her travels and her newest published novel.
ALBERTON – The Real Paula
Paula went to Kenton Primary, and her high school years was spent as a day girl at St. Andrew’s in Bedfordview.
Even though Paula now lives in Cape Town with her husband, she still has contact with friends in Alberton.
She says she always loved writing.
Her first work was publish at the age of eight, and from there on she pursued her passion. She has an Honours Degree in Publishing that she completed at Wits, a Diploma in Journalism from London and a Master’s in Creative writing from The University of Cape Town.
She has previously written several non-fiction books and two other novels.
Shadow Self is her latest work and has been published by Human and Rousseau.
Paula enjoys travelling and has been fortunate enough to see 81 countries around the world.
She explains: “I am a mom of two gorgeous boys, a wife, a proofreader, editor and coffee enthusiast. I’ve been charged by a tiger, climbed the Great Wall of China, eaten eel in Estonia and been to the Festival of the Sun King in Peru.”
Shadow Self
Without giving to much away, Shadow Self tells the story of Thea Middleton, who has committed a crime involving her children which landed her behind bars. The story is an exploration of motherhood and what can push a mother to the point of no return. The story is told from three different viewpoints. Thea’s, her daughter Sanusha’s and her husband Clay’s. Shadow Self has also been translated into Afrikaans, Skaduself.
For more information on Paula you can view her website www.paulamarais.com, like her Facebook page paulajmarais or follow her on Twitter @paula_marais
