Book Club: A trio of local books new to the bookshelves

Hijackers On Board by Cynthia Stimpel

“Cynthia Stimpel is a true patriot who chose to raise the alarm rather than to look the other way … an important, deeply personal account.” So says Mandy Wiener about Hijackers on Board, by Cynthia Stimpel.

The book opens on the day Cynthia is suspended from her job after almost ten years at South African Airways. Overnight, she went from group treasurer to SAA whistleblower.

This is her story … the story of how she – one courageous whistleblower – fought against the capture of SAA. How she lost her job, her income and her reputation, but saved the South African taxpayers R256 million.  Told simply, bravely, honestly. An exceptional, and important, read. Tafelberg 

Trust You’re Well by Hans Mackenzie Main

I’ll see your Karen, and raise you one. Trust You’re Well – Emails and other writings from a discerning consumer, is a collection of emails and notes by freelance writer Hans Mackenzie Main.

He sends off complaints, queries and observations to everyone from the customer relations manager at Absa (someone had birds, another customer skipped the queue) to some poor – and very patient – soul about why his diver’s watch beeps on the hour, and how to stop it.

Karens, trust us, have nothing on Hans. Besides the mails, there are also short opinion pieces, including proofreading, newsletters and the life of a freelancer. Short, sharp, and often silly … great fun. HMM Books

Strike A Rock – The Thembi Kgatlana Story by Nikolaos Kirkinis

Thembi Kgatlana is the girl who rose out of the tough streets of Mohlakeng and became a champion of the world. Strike a Rock by Nikolaos Kirkinis tells her story. One about difficult odd, about cruelty and broken families, about addiction … and about bravery and hope and the unwavering spirit of South African women, told through the eyes of one of the best footballers in Africa. Jacana Media

* For these and other superb reads, visit exclusivebooks.co.za