Author aims to inspire youth to follow the right path through his latest book

AN Austerville award-winning author, Cyril James, is hoping to inspire people, especially the youth, to choose the right path through his latest book.

The 76-year-old will be launching his latest book, The Making Of A Dangerous Inmate at the Abbaquar-San Dream Centre (old Silvertree Hall) on April 15, from 14:00 to 17:00.

James, a reformed convict, said through the non-fiction book, he wanted to share the story of what life was like behind bars.

“I believe the book will help, especially the youth, realise that there is only one way to go, and that is the right way.”

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James said the book, which took about a year to complete, tells the story of a beleaguered man who uses his wits to survive incarceration in South Africa’s harshest and most notorious prisons during the apartheid era.

“The character, Benny, was raised in a staunch Apostolic family to be a law abiding citizen. That was until the harsh laws of apartheid legislation gradually changed him. Forcing him to become a habitual offender of the law. The need for survival amidst harsh, inhumane prison conditions made him ‘a dangerous inmate’.”

He added although the book is based on fact, most of the depicted scenarios are a figment of his imagination.

James, who has written seven other books, which include Many A Cold Night, Give Me Shelter From The Storms, and Austerville Shutdown Of Fear, among others, said he is currently in the process of writing his next book.

For more information on his books, contact James on 072 319 4421.

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