A Far-Off Place by Laurens van der Post (1974 First Edition)

A Far-Off Place by Laurens van der Post is one of the author’s most celebrated literary works and an enduring classic of African fiction. Published in 1974 by The Hogarth Press, this evocative novel combines adventure, spirituality, survival, and an intimate understanding of the African landscape into a deeply memorable reading experience.

Set in Southern Africa, A Far-Off Place follows young protagonists forced into a perilous journey across the Kalahari Desert after tragedy strikes their isolated farm. Along the way, themes of identity, endurance, cultural wisdom, and humanity unfold against the stark beauty of the African wilderness. Van der Post’s profound connection with the Bushmen of the Kalahari and his lyrical prose give the novel a philosophical depth that has captivated readers for decades.

Laurens van der Post remains one of the most important literary voices associated with Africa, and A Far-Off Place stands alongside works such as The Lost World of the Kalahari and A Story Like the Wind as essential reading for collectors of Africana and African literature. The novel later inspired the 1993 film adaptation starring Reese Witherspoon and Ethan Embry, further cementing its place in popular culture.

This 1974 hardcover edition published by The Hogarth Press is particularly appealing to collectors of first editions, African literature, travel writing, and classic modern fiction. A Far-Off Place’s striking dust jacket artwork and strong association with Southern African storytelling make it a desirable addition to any Africana or literary collection.

Condition – Very Good 

1974 hardcover in very good condition and plastic-covered. Very good dust jacket. Internally with tape marks on the inner covers and endpapers, prior ownership inscription in ink on the endpaper, and foxing present.