In the Rapids: New South African Stories by Linda Rode & Jakes Gerwel

In the Rapids: New South African Stories, compiled by Linda Rode and Jakes Gerwel, is an engaging anthology of contemporary South African short fiction published by Kwela Books in 2001. Bringing together thirty stories from writers representing a wide range of cultural, linguistic, geographic and social backgrounds, the collection presents a fascinating literary portrait of South Africa during a period of rapid social and political change.

In the Rapids was conceived as a follow-up to the successful Crossing Over and features contributions from both established South African authors and emerging literary voices. Writers represented include Jenny Hobbs, Dianne Hofmeyr, Johnny Masilela, Rayda Jacobs, Marita van der Vyver, Fatima Dike, Jeanne Goosen, K. Sello Duiker and others. Their stories explore personal relationships, identity, community, race, culture, growing up and the changing realities of South African society.

Rather than presenting one single view of the country, In the Rapids allows numerous voices and experiences to stand alongside one another. This variety makes the collection particularly valuable to readers interested in South African literature, post-apartheid writing, multicultural fiction and modern African short stories.

Published by the respected Cape Town imprint Kwela Books, this is the first edition, first printing from 2001. In the Rapids is an appealing addition to a collection of South African fiction and literary anthologies, as well as an accessible introduction to a broad selection of South African writers.

Condition – Very Good

Paperback with light general shelf and edge wear and some minor spotting to the page edges.