Ne history book a runaway winner

Delightful, gripping and truly a history book which could be regarded as the ABC and XYZ of all of South Africa’s people’s history, their heritage, historical aspirations and the role they played in forming South Africa.

A History of South Africa, from the distant past to the present day of Professor Fransjohan Pretorius, is exactly what the title states. The book that was launched this week is the English translation of the runaway success book Die Geskiedenis van Suid Afrika Van voortye tot vandag. Such is the public interest that even though it has just been launched, virtually half of the first edition has already been sold.

In his introduction editor Pretorius is first to acknowledge the fact that no single interpretation can stand alone in its claim to be valid. In the compilation of various chapters such as the different views on apartheid, the role of trade unions, black resistance, the white English speaking experience, history of coloured and Indian people, South African churches during apartheid and the significance of environmental history, are all aspects that underscore the comprehensiveness of the book.

”The idea of an English translation was first and foremost to give a balanced and an unbiased and well-researched account of all South Africa’s inhabitants’ history, which will also be accessible to English mother tongue speakers. English is widely spoken and for that reason this book should also appeal to any one visiting South Africa and wishing to know more about our country. Secondly the English translation afforded us the opportunity to update on the Afrikaans edition, therefore some of the latest information such as for instance Julius Malema forming his own political party just before the general election, is also captured in this book,” Pretorius said.

With the contributions of various authors (all well acknowledged leaders and academics in their fields) this is by a far cry no ordinary just another history book. It is much, much more, giving a rich array of different motives, perspectives and ideology’s why and how South Africa’s history progressed in the way it did.

Style wise A History of South Africa, from the distant past to the present day reads rather more like a novel. This book is by no means just a boring academic chronology of dates and things that happened. All contributions of the various authors are well written to make this book an attractive read like an adventure through time and accessible for pupils and the layman alike.

A History of South Africa, from the distant past to the present day is published by Protea Book House. The translation from Afrikaans was done by Dr Bridget Theron. Enquiries as to the price and availability can be directed to protea@interkom.co.za or www.proteaboekhuis.com.