Instead of moping around the house during social distancing, escape into another world by reading books written by African authors. Our Features Writer Fundiswa Nkwanyana shares her suggestions on books to read.
There is now enough time to indulge in a book to pass time and to keep your brain stimulated. African authors have written books on diverse topics and everyone is catered for.
Here are 5 books to read during the lockdown:
Sports Fanatics
1. Beast by Tendai Mtawarira with Andy Capostagno. If you are into sports especially rugby, then you will love this book about how a humble man from Zimbabwe became an internationally acclaimed sport star. The 2019 most capped Super Rugby player has written a book about his life where he talks about growing up hungry, the highs and lows of his rugby career, being called the Beast and life after rugby. It’s an easy read with heart-warming photographs of memorable moments throughout his life.
Avid Travelers
2. Blacks Do Caravan by Fikile Hlatshwayo. While you are cooped up indoors, you can daydream and plan your next trip in our beautiful country for when the lockdown is over; especially because the tourism sector will need your support. This book is about a family caravanning across South Africa and all the places they visit. It is packed with reviews on caravan spots, tourist attractions and family-friendly activities. It’s an informative book to help you plan your next trip.
SEE ALSO: 4 must-read books by South African authors
Historical Knowledge
3. The Soweto Uprisings by Sifiso Mxolisi Ndlovu (Updated edition with new content). Chances are that the history lessons you had in school did not include new information that black authors are writing about. Update your knowledge by reading this book written by someone who was part of the 1976 June uprising. There are gripping eyewitness accounts and memories that provide a new perspective on what actually went down. This is not a leisurely read; it’s an intense book with historical facts. I suggest you pass your copy on to your teenager after reading or use it for home-schooling.
Get Motivated
4. What Do You See? by Itumeleng Sekhu. During the lockdown, it’s easy to find yourself feeling depressed and unmotivated. Reading a book about perseverance can help improve your outlook. This autobiography looks at the pain and suffering endured by Itumeleng who was severely burnt when she was 11 months old. It’s an emotional and uplifting read that documents how she was able to overcome challenges of growing up with burn scars and without an ear, fingers and an amputated arm. After reading this book, you will be inspired to live your best life.
SEE ALSO: 3 books to add to your reading list
Foodie Corner
5. Dijo by Lesego Semenya. You can use all this free time to learn how to cook South African delicacies and to try out new recipes. This recipe book also has stories behind the author’s favourite recipes and a bit of South African food history. Expect to find recipes for idombolo with mogodu, makipkip, courgette and parmesan soup, homemade pasta recipes and many more. It’s the perfect way to have fun in the kitchen.
Happy reading and please share what books you are reading with us on #BONAReads