The best 27 South Africa books

Invictus tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela used the South African rugby team to unite a divided nation during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Through interviews and research, John Carlin explores the power of forgiveness, leadership, and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. It is a compelling account of how sports can bring about social change and reconciliation.

Set in South Africa during the 1940s, "Cry, the Beloved Country" tells the story of a Zulu pastor who travels to Johannesburg in search of his son. Through the pastor's journey, the novel explores the racial and social injustices of the time, and the impact of these injustices on individuals and communities. It is a powerful and thought-provoking book that delves into themes of love, loss, and the struggle for justice.

A Dry White Season by Andre Brink is a powerful novel set in apartheid-era South Africa. It tells the story of a white schoolteacher who becomes involved in the anti-apartheid movement after witnessing the brutal treatment of a black friend. The book delves into themes of injustice, resistance, and the human capacity for change, offering a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of a dark chapter in history.

A Rainbow in the Night by Dominique Lapierre tells the inspiring story of the struggle for freedom and equality in South Africa. Through powerful narratives and firsthand accounts, the book chronicles the country's turbulent history, from the oppression of apartheid to the eventual triumph of democracy. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit.

Burger's Daughter is a novel by Nadine Gordimer that delves into the complexities of apartheid-era South Africa. The story follows the life of Rosa Burger, the daughter of a revered anti-apartheid activist, as she grapples with her father's legacy and her own political awakening. Through Rosa's journey, Gordimer explores themes of identity, resistance, and the power of individual choice.

Conversations With Myself is a compelling collection of writings and reflections by Nelson Mandela. Through personal letters, diary entries, and transcripts of interviews, Mandela takes us on a journey through his life, sharing his thoughts on everything from his time in prison to the struggle against apartheid. It offers a unique insight into the mind of one of the most influential figures of our time.

Dead Before Dying is a gripping crime novel by Deon Meyer. Set in Cape Town, South Africa, it follows detective Zet van Heerden as he investigates the brutal murder of a wealthy and influential businessman. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption that reaches into the highest levels of society. With its intricate plot and compelling characters, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Dead at Daybreak is a gripping mystery novel by Deon Meyer. Set in post-apartheid South Africa, it follows the story of a former police officer, Zet van Heerden, who is drawn into a web of corruption and betrayal when he is asked to investigate the murder of a wealthy businessman. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens not only his own life but also the future of the country.

Elizabeth Costello is a thought-provoking novel by J. M. Coetzee that delves into complex philosophical and ethical questions. Through the character of Elizabeth Costello, a renowned author, the book explores themes such as animal rights, the nature of literature, and the existence of God. It challenges readers to reconsider their own beliefs and perceptions of the world.

Ghost Boy is a memoir by Martin Pistorius that tells the incredible true story of his experience being trapped inside his own body for 12 years. Diagnosed with a mysterious illness as a child, Pistorius fell into a vegetative state, unable to move or communicate. Despite being written off by medical professionals, he eventually began to regain consciousness and found a way to let the world know he was still alive. This inspiring tale explores the power of the human spirit and the importance of hope.

Heart of the Hunter by Deon Meyer is a gripping thriller set in post-apartheid South Africa. When a former freedom fighter is drawn back into a life of violence to protect a young boy, he finds himself on a dangerous journey that forces him to confront his own past. Filled with suspense and richly drawn characters, this novel explores the complexities of justice and redemption.

If You Want to Make God Laugh is a powerful novel by Bianca Marais that explores the complexities of family, race, and identity in post-apartheid South Africa. Set in the 1990s, the story follows three women from different backgrounds whose lives become intertwined by a series of unexpected events. With rich storytelling and compelling characters, the book delves into themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

In a Strange Room is a novel by Damon Galgut that follows the protagonist as he embarks on three separate journeys across different countries. The book explores themes of identity, friendship, and the search for meaning, all set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and the complexities of human relationships.

Jump and Other Stories by Nadine Gordimer is a collection of short stories that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal issues. With her insightful and thought-provoking writing, Gordimer explores themes such as race, identity, and power, offering a glimpse into the lives of diverse characters in South Africa. Each story is a compelling exploration of the human experience and the challenges we face in a changing world.

July's People is a thought-provoking novel by Nadine Gordimer that explores the complexities of race, power, and identity in apartheid-era South Africa. Set in a dystopian future, the book follows the Smales family as they seek refuge with their former servant, July, in a remote village. Through their interactions and evolving dynamics, Gordimer delves into the deep-seated societal issues and challenges the reader to confront their own beliefs and prejudices.

Koors by Deon Meyer is a gripping thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world. After a deadly virus wipes out most of the world's population, a group of survivors in South Africa must navigate a dangerous new reality. As they try to rebuild society, they uncover dark secrets and face unexpected challenges. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of survival, resilience, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect what they hold dear.

No Future Without Forgiveness is a compelling account by Desmond Tutu, the renowned South African Archbishop. In this book, Tutu reflects on his experiences as the Chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in post-apartheid South Africa. He delves into the complexities of forgiveness and the healing power it holds, offering profound insights into the potential for reconciliation in the face of deep-seated conflict and injustice.

Sizwe's Test by Jonny Steinberg is a compelling non-fiction book that delves into the personal story of a man living with HIV in South Africa. Through Sizwe's own experiences and the broader social context, the book explores the challenges and stigmas surrounding HIV/AIDS in the country. It offers a poignant reflection on the impact of the epidemic and the resilience of those affected.

Spud by John van de Ruit is a coming-of-age novel set in a South African boarding school in the 1990s. It follows the misadventures of John “Spud” Milton as he navigates friendships, first love, and the challenges of adolescence. The book is both humorous and heartfelt, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of growing up.

The Conservationist is a novel by Nadine Gordimer that delves into the complexities of race, class, and ownership in apartheid-era South Africa. Through the story of a wealthy white man who buys a farm, the book explores the destructive effects of colonialism and the struggle for land and identity. It offers a thought-provoking examination of power dynamics and the human connection to the land.

The Fever Tree is a captivating historical novel set in 19th century South Africa. It follows the journey of Frances Irvine, a young woman who leaves her privileged life in England to marry a man she barely knows. As she navigates the harsh and unforgiving landscape, Frances discovers the brutal realities of colonialism and the power dynamics at play. With beautiful prose and richly drawn characters, Jennifer McVeigh explores themes of love, betrayal, and the fight for independence.

The Girl Who Saved the King of Sweden is a witty and charming novel by Jonas Jonasson. It tells the extraordinary story of Nombeko, a young girl from Soweto, who accidentally becomes involved in a plot to assassinate the king of Sweden. Filled with unexpected twists and turns, the book explores themes of fate, determination, and the power of one person to change the course of history.

The Heart of Redness by Zakes Mda is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex history and cultural conflicts in post-apartheid South Africa. Set in a rural village, the story intertwines the lives of two women from different generations, exploring themes of tradition, modernity, and the consequences of colonialism. Through rich storytelling and vivid characters, Mda offers a compelling exploration of identity and the pursuit of change.

Triomf by Marlene van Niekerk is a darkly humorous and unsettling novel set in post-apartheid South Africa. It delves into the dysfunctional dynamics of a white Afrikaner family living in the impoverished suburb of Triomf. As they prepare for a celebration amidst the political changes in the country, long-buried secrets and resentments come to the surface, revealing the complexities of their relationships and the legacy of apartheid.

Tsotsi is a powerful novel by Athol Fugard that delves into the life of a young gang leader in the streets of Johannesburg. The story follows Tsotsi as he navigates a life of crime and violence, ultimately leading to a transformative journey of self-discovery and redemption. Fugard's compelling narrative sheds light on the harsh realities of apartheid-era South Africa and explores themes of poverty, morality, and the possibility of change.

You Will Be Safe Here by Damian Barr is a powerful novel that weaves together two compelling stories set in South Africa. The first takes place during the Boer War, where a woman and her young son are forced into a British concentration camp. The second story follows a teenage boy who is sent to a brutal camp for "troubled" boys. Through these narratives, the book explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the legacy of colonialism.

Zoo City is a gripping urban fantasy novel by Lauren Beukes that takes place in a world where people who have committed a crime are magically attached to an animal companion. The story follows Zinzi December, a former journalist with a Sloth on her back, as she delves into the dangerous underworld of Johannesburg to solve a missing persons case. Filled with mystery, suspense, and a unique blend of fantasy and reality, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.