The Story of an African Farm by Olive Schreiner

The Story of an African Farm by Olive Schreiner is one of the most significant novels in South African literary history and a pioneering work of feminist fiction. Originally published in 1883 under the pseudonym Ralph Iron, this remarkable novel challenged the social, religious and gender conventions of Victorian society while offering a vivid portrayal of life in rural South Africa.

Set on an isolated farm in the Karoo during the nineteenth century, The Story of an African Farm follows the lives of three young people, Lyndall, Em and Waldo, as they struggle with questions of identity, personal freedom, religion, love and the expectations imposed upon them by society.

The Story of an African Farm is particularly notable for its unconventional narrative structure, philosophical passages and realistic depiction of the South African landscape. Schreiner’s writing captures both the physical isolation of the Karoo and the emotional struggles of individuals seeking meaning and fulfilment.

This Africana Library edition, first published in 1975 by AD Donker, includes an introduction by respected South African writer and academic Richard Rive, offering additional literary and historical context to Schreiner’s influential work.

The Story of an African Farm remains an essential contribution to South African literature and the broader history of feminist writing. It is particularly appealing to collectors of Africana, students of English literature, literary historians and readers interested in nineteenth-century South African society.

Condition – Very Good

Very good hardcover in a very good dust jacket with slight foxing and a repaired tear along the lower edge of the front panel. Foxing present internally. Orange boards remain well preserved.