2011 Longlist
A Man Who is Not a Man
ABOUT
THE BOOK
With frankness and courage the author details the pain and life-long shame that is experienced as a result of not just the physical trauma, but the social ostracism of being labelled ‘a failed man’. He decodes the values and mysteries of this deep-seated cultural tradition and calls to account the elders for the disintegrating support systems that allow such tragic outcomes to happen. But it is also through this life-changing experience that his protagonist is forced to find his strength and humanity, and reassess what it really means to be a man.
NOMINATING LIBRARY COMMENTS
A strong book about traditional values and the draconian enforcement thereof. Very much in the news in South Africa.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Country
South Africa
Original Language
English
Publisher
University of KwaZulu-Natal Press
Nominating Library