Vrouebataljon by Heinz G. Konsalik

Vrouebataljon by Heinz G. Konsalik is the 1982 first Afrikaans edition of Konsalik’s German novel Frauenbataillon, translated into Afrikaans by Ludwig Visser and published by Tafelberg-Uitgewers for Leserskring. Presented in an attractive decorative Leserskring binding, this substantial 535-page hardcover is an appealing example of the Afrikaans editions of Konsalik’s enormously popular novels that found a devoted South African readership during the latter half of the twentieth century.

Konsalik was particularly well known for dramatic novels combining war, human relationships, romance, danger and survival. Vrouebataljon falls firmly within this tradition, making it of interest to readers and collectors of military fiction, historical novels and vintage Afrikaans translations. Konsalik’s Afrikaans editions remain especially nostalgic collectables for readers who encountered his novels through South African book clubs and publishers such as Leserskring and Tafelberg.

This edition is particularly attractive in its rich red faux-leather binding, decorated and lettered in gilt to the front board and spine. The traditional Leserskring presentation gives Vrouebataljon considerably more visual appeal than an ordinary trade hardcover and makes it suitable both as a reading copy and as part of a collection of vintage Afrikaans fiction.

A handsome first Afrikaans edition of one of Konsalik’s Vrouebataljon and an excellent addition to a collection of Heinz G. Konsalik, Leserskring publications, translated Afrikaans literature or twentieth-century war fiction.

Condition – Near Fine

Near fine 1982 hardcover, decoratively bound in gilt-stamped red faux leather. The binding remains particularly attractive with bright gilt decoration and lettering and only very light signs of handling and shelf wear. Internally clean, well preserved and firmly bound. An excellent example of this Leserskring edition.