This year has been an amazing one for South African literary scene – from the South African Book Fair which saw Constitution Hill come alive with literary flair as industry experts showcased work that entertains, educates and empowers to the 2019 South African Literary Awards which saw some of the country’s best authors receive some much-deserved recognition.
As we reach the close of the year City Buzz, with the help of Bridge Books owner Griffin Shea, decided to revisit five specially handpicked reads from 2019.
First on the list is Chigozie Obioma’s The Fishermen. The novel is the Cain and Abel-esque story of an unforgettable childhood in 1990’s Nigeria, in the small town of Akure. The bold debut from Chigozie emerges as one of the most original new voices of modern African literature and saw the novel shortlisted for The Man Booker Prize.
“I’m reading An Orchestra of Minorities now, which makes me want to go back and read The Fisherman. The novel is narrated by a man’s chi, or his animating spirit, which tried to guide him in his love with a much wealthier woman,” Griffin said.
Coming in second on Griffin’s top five reads is Maimouna Jallow’s Story Story, Story Come. The collection takes the reader on a literary journey across Africa. Through riddles, songs, myths and legends, both children and adults are invited to delve into parallel worlds where they are taught valuable lessons on friendship, hard work, bravery and much more.
“Story Story, Story Come has just had a new print run. It’s a collection of African folktales assembled by the amazing storyteller Maimouna Jallow, who gathered them from traditional storytellers across the continent,” he said
Ming-Cheau Lin’s Yellow and Confused receives an honourable mention at number three. In the memoir, Ming-Cheau shares her story and journeys to uncover the reasons why yellow people are treated the way they are in a space that doesn’t recognise them as part of the population.
“Yellow and Confused is the new memoir by Ming-Cheau Lin about growing up Taiwanese in SA. I’m also in a mixed marriage, and her telling gave me lots of insight. Her cookbook Just Add Rice is also wonderful,” said Griffin.
Love it or hate it, Joburg has a special place in the hearts of many and I Love You, I Hate You takes fourth place. Bradley Kirshenbaum and Love Jozi collection of essays by Joburgers who are helping shape the city complement this rich archive of unique images of the city.
“It’s beautiful as an object, created by the brains behind Love Jozi, and despite the title, it leaves you with lots to love,” he said.
Concluding Griffin’s top five picks is Masande Ntshanga’s Triangulum. The book mixes science-fiction with philosophy and details of South African history seldom examined through the life of maths prodigy who is haunted by the loss of her mother.
“It’s not a straightforward read, but it’s an insightful look at how past, present and future collide,” Griffin said.
