Adrift on the Open Veld by Deneys Reitz

Adrift on the Open Veld by Deneys Reitz is a compelling autobiographical account of one of the most eventful lives in South African history. Published by Stormberg, the volume brings together Reitz’s three celebrated works, Commando, Trekking On and No Outspan, presenting his experiences from the Anglo-Boer War through the political and military upheavals of the first half of the twentieth century. Bibliographic records identify the Stormberg edition as a 560-page softcover, with maps and an index.

Reitz was only a teenager when he joined the Boer forces during the Anglo-Boer War of 1899–1902. His experiences as a commando provide some of the most vivid personal writing to emerge from the conflict, describing guerrilla warfare, long rides across the veld, shortages, pursuit by British forces and the extraordinary hardships endured by Boer fighters. His account is notable for its directness and strong sense of place.

Adrift on the Open Veld does not end with the war. Reitz went on to become a soldier, lawyer and prominent politician, and the later sections follow his involvement in South African affairs, including the First World War and the political developments of the Union period. His autobiography therefore provides a much broader perspective than a conventional military history, combining adventure, political history, biography and observations of South African society.

The title is taken from Reitz’s description of his commando force during the Anglo-Boer War and provides an evocative image of the uncertainty and hardship of life on campaign. The three original books were published separately between 1929 and 1943, while the Stormberg collection first appeared in 1999 and subsequently went through further impressions.

This edition will appeal particularly to readers interested in the Anglo-Boer War, Deneys Reitz, Afrikaner history, South African military history and the political development of twentieth-century South Africa. Adrift on the Open Veld is also an engaging memoir in its own right, combining historical significance with the adventurous quality of Reitz’s remarkable life.

Condition: Near Fine – Light shelf wear on cover, prior ownership stamp on front end page.