My latest column is now online at Expat Focus. This month I write about literature as it relates to the way I travel.
Please click here to read this month’s column, then come back here for a few snapshots of places I’ve been, inspired by books I’ve read. (If you enjoy this month’s column, please do share it.)
Honoring writers and history at Vilikazi Street in Soweto
Retreating in the hills above Ixopo, of Paton’s Cry the Beloved Country.
Imagining a rugged dog named Jock of the Bushveld, and a harsh kudu kick to the head.
Returning to words in Long Walk to Freedom while at Mandela’s capture site.
Sure, I look at birds and wildflowers, lions and trees. But thanks to the diverse and ample literary history of South Africa, I never travel without your stories.
Have you ever traveled somewhere that you can practically taste the life of a story you’ve read? I’d love to hear about it, and maybe get some new ideas for my next literary travel!
Love, MarLa
Oops! Did you read this whole page and forget to read my monthly column that inspired it? Click here for the column. If you enjoy it, please share it! 🙂
Marla, Have you read The World that was Ours by Hilda Bernstein? It covers the lead up to the Liliesleaf Raid and subsequent Rivonia Trial. In fact, have you been to Liliesleaf in Johannesburg? It’s possibly the best museum in SA. I highly recommend the book and the museum is excellent, better than the Apartheid Museum I think.
Thank you for reading and replying. No, I haven’t read it or been to Liliesleaf. I’ve been waiting to visit Rivonia until I finish No Bread For Mandela, by Kathrada, which I’m reading now.
I will do read her book and then make the visit. Thanks so much for the recommendation.