Books can open your heart, eyes and imagination. Our friends at Stellenbosch Books share their latest recommendations. As we enter the festive season, we share some extra great gift ideas.

Flesh by David Szalay

Winner of the coveted Booker Prize 2025, David Szalay’s sixth book has come away as one of the most celebrated novels this year. The story follows István, a social outsider, as he navigates a troubled adolescence and rises through the murky ranks of London’s social scene. As relationships both kindle and burn around him, István attempts to make sense of his turbulent life. Szalay manages to communicate a book filled with passion, adultery, and violence in a startlingly spare and sharp manner, resulting in a mesmerizing story that confronts its readers head-on.

Safe by Jessica Baum

From the author of Anxiously Attached comes yet another informed and compassionate guide to understanding how and why we relate to others in the ways that we do. Licensed therapist Jessica Baum draws on both attachment theory and neuroscience to explore these dynamics, and sheds light on how we might imagine safer, more secure relationships. Packed with practical tools, meditative prompts, and critical insights, her book provides a useful toolkit to draw from for those looking to deepen their connections with their loved ones.

 

Skorpio by Deon Meyer

Deon Meyer is back with yet another pulsing thriller, and the stakes could not be higher. Seasoned detective Benny Griessel is stuck with an apparent suicide and no leads, while his partner Vaughn Cupido pokes around a minor arson, both unimpressed with their respective cases. That is, until a caravan explodes, and the two incidents don’t seem as unrelated as before. With BRICS delegates coming into town and the media in a frenzy, it becomes a race against the clock for Griessel and Cupido to unspin the sinister web that has unfurled beneath them. Sadly, English readers will have to wait until 2026 for the translation, but, oh, will it be worth it…

Previous Recommendations

Coffee Table Books

If there’s one thing every coffee table needs, it’s a coffee table book. Spoil a loved one this festive season with one of Stellenbosch Books’ specially curated titles. With books that range from art and science to animals and fashion, there is sure to be something for everyone. And for that person who you just can’t pin down, there are also some weird and wonderful esoteric gems (like this delightful book on a pioneer of early photography). Thoughtful, elegant, and endlessly browsable, these titles make lovely gifts for anyone who enjoys a beautiful book.

Kaweco Pens

Timeless and beautifully crafted, Kaweco pens make for an exceptional holiday gift for those who appreciate quality stationery. Known for their smooth writing experience and iconic vintage-inspired design, these pens bring a touch of elegance to everyday notes, journal entries, and creative projects. Whether you choose a classic Perkeo or a sleek Liliput, each Kaweco pen is made to last and feels wonderful in the hand. Both practical and stylish, they’re a sure-fire bet for the perfect stocking stuffer.

Cookbooks

For the foodie on your list, the cookbook selection covers a wide array of cultures and cuisines. From beloved South African classics to global best-sellers, these books are a great way to explore new flavours, try out different techniques, and discover the amazing stories behind them. Whether you’re shopping for seasoned home cooks or adventurous beginners, there’s something here to inspire every palate. Beautifully photographed and thoughtfully designed, these cookbooks will look great in anyone’s kitchen!

Puzzles

There are few activities that beat that late-stage holiday boredom better than a good puzzle. Perfect for a calm afternoon with the family, these puzzles bring together nature, literature, and whimsy for an easy holiday gift. Plant lovers will enjoy beautifully illustrated botanical puzzles, while bookworms can revisit beloved classics like The Great Gatsby or explore the wonderful world of Jane Austen. Ideal for anyone who loves a mindful, screen-free activity.

Sebastião Salgado. Gold

After numerous requests over many years, acclaimed photojournalist Sebastião Salgado was finally granted permission to visit Serra Pelada, the site of the largest open-air gold mine in history. The resultant photographs — capturing tens of thousands of barely-clad men scrambling over the vast pit, their skin stained by the earth they had excavated — held the world in equal parts shock and awe. This signed and limited Collector’s Edition is the first monograph gathering the astonishing portfolio in full. In grand-scale, museum-quality reproductions, the images are interlaid with transparent paper and printed with cutting-edge High Definition Skia Photography technology. The result is nothing short of mesmerising, like an exhibition in book form. Collector’s edition of 1,000 numbered copies.

Click here for more information. 

Dalí

The ultimate Salvador Dalí monograph. Presenting his key works in a size and detail never before seen in print, this multivolume project is a collector’s dream. Accompanied by a chronology book with essays, letters and reviews that trace the artist’s ascent into stardom, as well as a complete catalogue of his illustrated work. All contained in a black velvet bound box with gold foil embossing. Weighing in at 16kg, this assembly of the life and oeuvre of the surrealist master has cut no corners. Collector’s edition of 10,000 numbered copies.

Click here for more information.

Issey Miyake

This TASCHEN Collector’s Edition offers an expert history of Issey Miyake design. Presented in an original MIYAKE-designed book bag, the book traces Miyake’s texture-driven originality from the earliest days of his career, when he first expressed his commitment to clothing as a field for enduring design rather than changing fashions. It bears witness not only to Miyake’s ongoing exploration of the relationship between a piece of cloth and the body, but also to his singular blend of tradition, futurism, and function. The book is stamped with Miyake’s own “inkan” – a traditional Japanese seal equivalent to a signature and used in daily Japanese life for all official paperwork. Collector’s edition of 1,000 numbered copies.

Click here for more information.

Strong Ground by Brené Brown

“It’s time to reimagine the essentials of courageous leadership.” Distilling the lessons she has both learned and taught at her celebrated Dare to Lead workshops, Brené Brown guides readers through the many insights that make for good leadership. In line with her collaborative spirit the book also includes wisdom from other thinkers, such as Adam Grant and Amy Webb, which work to bolster an already rich text. The book is an invaluable guide for those looking to incorporate a more grounded approach to their strategies and leadership.

Katabasis by R. F. Kuang

Hell is less fiery pits and more a university campus in Kuang’s latest foray into the world of dark academia. The story follows Alice Law, a doctoral candidate in analytic magick, as she descends into the depths of hell in order to find her deceased supervisor and secure a vital recommendation letter. Complicating the matter is Peter Murdoch, a bitter rival, who has decided to go after him as well. An unconventional, fantastical take on the world of academia, Kuang’s latest book contains that imaginative flair her fans have come to recognise and love her for.

Not This Tender by Sarah Uheida

Launched earlier this year at the Franschhoek Literary Festival, Sarah Uheida’s debut collection of poetry weaves myth, loss and familial tension into a dazzling and deeply evocative tapestry. Uheida, originally from Libya, has been a resident of Stellenbosch since 2011, having left a home in the throes of civil war. Her collection flits between the sting of memory and the anxieties of uncertainty with a deftness and precision that is at once both surgical and vulnerable. Garnering praise from the likes of Joan Hambidge and Gabeba Baderoon, Uheida is that rare poet of substance and skill that promises to be a talent worth watching. Signed copies available on request. For more click here.

 

Bitterkomix: Sketchbooks and Journals

Bitterkomix fans, hold on to your hats. In their latest publication, long-time collaborators Anton Kannemeyer and Conrad Botes lift the veil on their infamous and hilariously satirical handiwork. With an extensive number of excerpts from the personal sketchbooks and journals of both Kannemeyer and Botes, the book provides an intimate look at their creative process. More than just a peek behind the curtains, however, it traces their journey from budding creatives to the artistic powerhouses they are now, exploring their influences (which are as wide as Hergé and Goya) along the way. Published on high-quality paper in a large format, one can pore over, in detail, all the mischievous magic produced by this synergistic duo. For more click here.

 

Malema by Micah Reddy & Pauli van Wyk

“This is not a biography of Julius Malema. It is the story of his money.” A topic that has long been a source of heated debate and contention, Malema and his money are brought into unflinching light in this damning book by investigative journalists Micah Reddy and Pauli van Wyk. Tracking controversies as they have dogged him from his early days in Limpopo to the widely publicized VBS scandal, Reddy and Van Wyk take a detailed inventory of the facts and figures that built an empire. Their work here provides a searing portrait of a man mired in infamy, painted against the wider backdrop of political corruption crippling South Africa and its people.

Unlocked by Eben Etzebeth

Unlocked by Eben Etzebeth is an intimate and inspiring autobiography that traces the journey of South Africa’s most‑capped Springbok lock. From humble beginnings in Goodwood, through the struggles of youth and early rejection (when he couldn’t make his high school A‑team), to rising into a world‑class rugby icon, Etzebeth gives readers a raw, honest account of what it truly takes to wear the green and gold. He doesn’t shy away from the highs or the lows: his mindset, leadership roles, controversies and what it means to unite a nation through sport all find space here. For anyone who loves rugby, resilience or stories of people pushing boundaries, Unlocked is a gripping reminder that greatness is forged, not given.

Sweetie by Nataniël

Sweetie by Nataniël is a poignant collection of short stories that beautifully captures the complexities of identity, love and longing. Each story offers a raw,
intimate glimpse into the lives of characters grappling with who they are and how they fit into the world around them. With lyrical prose and emotional depth, Sweetie invites readers into moments both tender and haunting, making it a must-read for
anyone drawn to powerful, character-driven storytelling.

Circle of Days by Ken Follett

Circle of Days by Ken Follett is an epic tale set in 2500 BCE, bringing to life the people, passion and vision behind the creation of a great stone monument.
Centred on Seft, a flint miner fleeing a brutal life, and Joia, a bold young woman determined to unite warring tribes through a structure that will stand for eternity,
the novel blends history, myth and human struggle. With drought, famine and violence threatening their vision, Circle of Days is a powerful story of ambition, survival and the enduring human drive to create something that lasts – ideal for fans of immersive and emotionally resonant historical fiction.

Al Die Swendelaars by Chris Karsten

Al die Swendelaars (All the Swindlers) by Chris Karsten is a gripping crime novel that follows detective Arrie Dogh in the final days before his retirement. What begins as a seemingly routine break-in at a horse farm in Wilderness quickly unravels into a complex web of deceit, involving a long-running Ponzi scheme, shady international deals and millions that vanished from a retirement home. As Dogh digs deeper, he uncovers layers of betrayal, greed,and hidden motives stretching back decades. Packed with twists, secrets and sharp suspense, Al die Swendelaars is perfect for fans of smart, tightly woven mysteries that keep you guessing until the very end.

Bare Bones by Nicole Engelbrecht

Bare Bones: Cold Cases from True Crime South Africa by Nicole Engelbrecht is a gripping true‑crime collection that re‑examines unsolved disappearances and murders she’s covered in her podcast. Nicole digs into public and private records, interviews and tips – many previously unpublished – to retell cases ranging from a Jane Doe found under a swimming pool to children taken outside their homes, to people vanishing inside the prison system. It’s a powerful, haunted look at stories often overlooked, driven by a search for justice and closure for the victims and their families.

Wild Ocean by Peter and Beverly Pickford

Wild Ocean: A Journey into the Earth’s Last Wild Coasts by Peter and Beverly Pickford is a breathtaking visual odyssey that captures the planet’s most remote and pristine wildernesses. Over four years and across seven continents, the Pickfords embarked on an ambitious journey to document these untouched landscapes – from the icy expanses of Antarctica to the arid beauty of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast. Their 400-page book features over 200 striking photographs that not only showcase the grandeur of these environments but also highlight the diverse wildlife that inhabits them. This book is an essential addition for nature enthusiasts, conservation advocates and anyone captivated by the raw splendour of our planet’s last wild places.

Bloei + Blom by Nataniël

Bloei + Blom is a striking, full-colour coffee table book by Nataniël, celebrating over 200 trailblazers who have shaped the Afrikaans language and culture. From poets and chefs to architects, scientists and musicians, these individuals have pushed boundaries and inspired generations. Crafted with contributions from more than 70 writers – including journalists, family members and friends – this hardcover book offers intimate portraits and stories that highlight the resilience and creativity of Afrikaans speakers. Designed as both a visual and literary tribute, Bloei + Blom is a must-have for anyone passionate about South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry and the enduring power of language.

Ocean by David Attenborough

Dive into the mesmerising world of Ocean by David Attenborough — a breathtaking exploration of the mysteries beneath the waves. From vibrant coral reefs to the darkest ocean depths, Attenborough unveils the beauty, power and fragility of Earth’s marine life. This captivating journey will leave you in awe of the seas — and inspired to protect them.

How Countries Go Broke by Ray Dalio

In How Countries Go Broke: The Big Cycle, Ray Dalio explores how nations fall into financial ruin by tracing the patterns of debt, political dysfunction and global instability that have repeated throughout history.

Drawing from a century of data across 35 countries, Dalio explains his “Big Debt Cycle” framework and warns that the US, with its soaring $36 trillion debt, is nearing a critical tipping point. Blending economics, history and current events, he offers powerful insights and practical tools for recognising the warning signs of collapse. It’s a must-read for anyone concerned about where the world is heading.

My Name is Emilia Del Valle by Isabel Allende

In My Name is Emilia del Valle, Isabel Allende introduces us to Emilia, a fiercely independent young woman in 19th‑century San Francisco who, raised by a loving stepfather, defies societal norms by writing under a male pseudonym before forging a path as a journalist. When she’s sent to Chile to cover the 1891 civil war, she not only discovers danger and romance but also uncovers her estranged father and wrestles with her identity and destiny. Allende weaves historical drama, passionate self‑discovery and vivid storytelling into a sweeping tale of love, war and reinvention.

The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown

Professor Robert Langdon returns in this high-stakes thriller set amid the Gothic spires of Prague. When his girlfriend, noetic scientist Katherine Solomon – on the brink of publishing a groundbreaking manuscript on human consciousness – is suddenly murdered and disappears, Langdon is thrust into a furious chase across Prague, London and New York. Hunted by mysterious forces tied to ancient legend, he must decode a conspiracy that could forever change our understanding of the mind. Filled with pulse‑pounding action, cryptic lore and Dan Brown’s signature blend of codes, art and cutting‑edge science, The Secret of Secrets promises a relentlessly dramatic ride from start to finish.

Death and the Gardener by Georgi Gospodinov

In Death and the Gardener, Georgi Gospodinov offers a deeply poetic and intimate elegy for his father, tracing the quiet unraveling of a once‑strong gardener as he succumbs to terminal illness. Through delicate vignettes – rich with memory, humor, myth and the rooted  imagery  of  cherries,  tulips  and roses – Gospodinov explores grief, legacy and personal history. As the narrator watches the garden he tended both sustain and slowly consume his father, he reckons with the vast emotional void left in his wake, crafting a striking homage to love, loss and the fragile persistence of memory.

Timeless South African by Ilse van der Merwe

In Timeless South African, celebrated food writer Ilse van der Merwe invites readers on a delicious journey through South Africa’s rich culinary tapestry with 101 beloved dishes, from everyday favorites like vetkoek, koeksisters and bunny chow to cultural staples such as bobotie and hertzoggies. Enhanced by striking full‑page photography and rooted in rich, well‑researched storytelling drawn from conversations with chefs and food lovers, this cookbook honours both heritage and innovation, illustrating how food connects us and defines who we are.

 

Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Mel Robbins’ Let Them Theory offers a transformative approach to personal growth and self-discovery. In this empowering book, Robbins challenges readers to let go of the limiting beliefs and fears that hold them back, urging them to embrace their true potential. With her signature blend of practical advice, motivational insights, and relatable stories, Robbins provides actionable strategies to shift mindsets and build resilience. Whether you’re looking to break free from self-doubt, achieve personal goals, or simply find more confidence in everyday life, Let Them Theory is a must-read guide for anyone ready to make lasting, positive change.

Click here for more.

Our Evenings By Alan Hollinghurst

Our Evenings by Alan Hollinghurst is a masterfully crafted exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Set in the serene yet charged atmosphere of a small English town, the novel delves into the lives of its aging characters as they navigate the quiet, often lonely realities of later life. With exquisite prose and a keen eye for detail, Hollinghurst paints a poignant portrait of personal histories, desires, and the delicate passage of time. Rich in emotional depth, Our Evenings is a beautiful, thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone reflecting on the intimacy and fragility of life’s most meaningful connections.

Click here for more.

 

Greatest of All Time. A Tribute to Muhammad Ali

 

Great Escapes Mediterranean. The Hotel Book

Each hotel is accompanied by useful information and stunning photography that captures the essence of its atmosphere. Order here.

Michelangelo. The Complete Works. Paintings, Sculptures, Architecture

Soak in the breath-taking detail with full-page reproductions and prepare to be dazzled by the fold-out frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. Order here.

Our London Lives by Christine Hickey

 

In her ninth novel, Christine Hickey brings into focus the Irish diasporic experience of London at the end of the twentieth century. The story revolves around two young outsiders: there is Pip, a talented boxer with a drinking problem, and Milly, a teenage runaway who finds a home working in a pub. Beginning in 1979, the twin narrative fashions together four decades of their lives, portraying not only their own development, but the evolution of central London during this period. Like two lonely bodies in space, Pip and Milly orbit each other; apart for much of the time but generating profound connection when they come near. This wistful, beautiful novel is perfect for anyone looking for something strongly character-driven, but outside the confines of a typical romance.

Money: A Story of Humanity by David McWilliams

 

Money, Money, Money! The ever-present substance that oils the wheels of modern society. But what exactly is it? And where did it come from? In his latest book, economist David McWilliams takes us on an insightful journey through the history of our relationship with money, answering these questions and many more. From Babylon to Bitcoin, he explores how currencies have had lasting effects on the societies that dreamed them up. Written with irreverent humour and an incisive eye, McWilliams brings his engaging tone to a topic most may have found tedious. More than just a chronological account, this book is a delightful history of the world as told through the lens of money.

Into the Uncut Grass by Trevor Noah

 

From the global comedic phenomenon (and our very own) Trevor Noah comes a new, richly illustrated fable of connection, curiosity, and compassion. We follow a young boy with a rebellious streak venture beyond the comforts of home with his wise teddy bear Walter. Through his magical encounters in this new landscape, he learns the value of listening and resolving conflict peacefully. In the same vein as The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, this gently profound book touches on some timeless virtues. A gorgeous gem for all ages, just in time for the festive season too!

The Paris Muse by Louisa Treger

‘Living with him was like living at the centre of the universe. It was electrifying and humbling, blissful and destructive, all at the same time.’

In this captivating exploration of troubled love, Louisa Treger brings to life the tumultuous affair between the French artist Dora Maar and the iconic Pablo Picasso. Enamoured by his eccentricity and creative genius, Dora is drawn into an intense and obsessive relationship. This fictional work, rooted in biographical fact, weaves together plot and historical events seamlessly, lending an authentic backdrop to Dora’s story. Written in the first person, the narrative centres her experience and brings her back into the focus of Picasso’s famed life. It’s a page-turner that not only captivates but also serves as a remarkable display of literary compassion, with Dora’s voice ringing powerfully, even long after the book is closed. Click here to order.

Patient 12A by Lesedi Molefi

In this exciting debut, Lesedi Molefi pens his experience of the time he spent in a psychiatric clinic in 2016. Born in Soweto, Molefi is a talented photographer and documentarian whose personal history sheds light on the profound effects of adverse childhood experiences. This powerful narrative not only explores the complexities of mental illness—a topic often stigmatized in South African families—but also serves as a poignant commentary on courage, vulnerability, and self-reflection. Molefi reminds us that psychiatric facilities can still be places of safety and healing in our country. While not a self-help book, by inviting the reader to empathize with its protagonist, it encourages them to reflect on their own lives with compassion too. An incredible read. Click here to order.

Capitec: Stalking Giants by TJ Strydom

In case you missed him during the Woordfees festivities last week, this is your reminder to pick up a copy of TJ Strydom’s latest book, Capitec: Stalking Giants. In this thrilling tale, Strydom traces the development of South Africa’s most popular bank from its cradle to its explosion. Ever wondered how a group of microlenders could evolve into an institution worthy of the World’s Best Bank title? Here is your chance. Witty, smart, and well-researched, this book is a must-read for entrepreneurs, as well as anyone hungry for an authentic South African success story. Available in both Afrikaans and English. Click here to order.

My Journey with Wine

There’s a lovely buzz around My Journey with Wine, the new book that beautifully chronicles the life of a remarkable woman, leading her from the elegance of a chateau to a garrison in the American Midwest, from the historic vineyards of Bordeaux to the bustling streets of Beijing, and from the prestigious Médoc estates to the lush Cape vineyards of South Africa.

May-Éliane de Lencquesaing, now a venerable 99 years old, hails from a distinguished lineage of Bordeaux wine growers and brokers, and an Anglo-Spanish family rooted in the Philippines. Her marriage to a career army officer saw her living a nomadic life with her children, before fate, through a draw, awarded her the vineyard of Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Pauillac. With determination and vision, she revitalized this estate, elevating its wines to compete with France’s finest and earning global acclaim. At seventy-eight, her passion for viticulture led her to South Africa, where she embarked on a new journey, founding the Glenelly Estate.

Click here to order.

Crooked Seeds by Karen Jennings

Since her previous novel was longlisted for the Booker prize, Jennings’ work has attracted a growing readership. Her latest book further proves her ability in dealing with sociohistorical matters with an adept and creative hand. Set in Cape Town in the near future, where drought has ravaged the land, Deidre van Deventer sours away in her tiny public housing unit. Her unhappy life is suddenly upturned by the discovery of human remains at her old family home, and a subsequent investigation is launched into her brother’s involvement in a pro-apartheid group in the 1990s. With its spare prose and dark humour, Crooked Seeds is a cutting tale of memory and guilt that you will not want to miss.

Click here to order.

Medea by Rosie Hewlett

Love. Witchcraft. Betrayal. From the award-winning author of Medusa comes yet another fresh retelling of an ancient Greek myth. Medea explores the life of its titular character, a powerful sorceress and priestess of the goddess Hecate, who is trapped by her father, the King Aeëtes. The arrival of the hero Jason, on a quest to find the Golden Fleece protected by her father, is just the chance Medea needs to escape. Bold and ambitious, Hewlett does not shy away from the moral ambiguities of this classic tale, highlighting the contrast between naivety and power. This instant Sunday Times Bestseller is just the retelling you need to add to your shelves.

Click here to order.

Mortal Secrets by Frank Tallis

“Some cities are like stars,” Tallis writes of early twentieth-century Vienna. The lasting influence of this period on the art, architecture, and even music of today, is testament to this fact. But it is in the mind in which this city has had the largest sway, owed to its most famous inhabitant: Sigmund Freud. In this look at Vienna’s Golden Age, Tallis elucidates the life of Freud during this time, exploring his relationships and the evolution of the ideas that were generated in this city. Fans of Tallis’ fictional Liebermann Papers will appreciate this further illumination to the setting of his mystery novels. Critically balanced and wonderfully composed, Mortal Secrets is well worth your time.

Click here to order.

The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton

Our fluffiest socks have been struggling to keep us from freezing our toes off. Luckily, we got a prescription for some hot chocolate, a fireplace, and a delicious novel to beat the chill. Should work for you too!

Available at Stellenbosch Books at 14 Andringa Street in Stellenbosch Central.

Nuclear War: A Scenario by Annie Jacobsen

Panic. Shockwaves. Ash. We have all been warned of the threat that nuclear weapons pose. But what might an all-out nuclear war even look like? In this gripping and rigorous account, journalist Annie Jacobsen leads us through it, step by step. Centred around a fictional attack by North Korea on the USA, chaos reigns supreme and a deadly succession of decisions ensues. This creative work of non-fiction has been meticulously researched to portray the most likely chain of events. If that doesn’t sound promising enough, rumour has it that a film adaptation is in the works, with Dune director Denis Villeneuve being eyed to lead the project.

Available at Stellenbosch Books at 14 Andringa Street in Stellenbosch Central.

The Levantine Vegetarian by Salma Hage

From the best-selling author of The Lebanese Kitchen comes yet another stunning collection of recipes. This time, she showcases the rich and vibrant dishes offered by the Levantine region. Winner of the James Beard Prize, Hage guides the reader through a glorious array of plant-based recipes; from classics like kofte and fattoush, to mouth-watering specialities such as the sumac and barberry salad. Sound good? Why not pop in, grab a copy, and then sit down at Man’oushe for some delicious Lebanese mezze next door!

Available at Stellenbosch Books at 14 Andringa Street in Stellenbosch Central.

Table For Two by Amor Towles

 

Elegance. Intricacies. Upset. Amor Towles dazzles once more with Table for Two, a collection of six short stories and a novella.

Set primarily in New York, the stories delve into the complicated interior lives of their various characters. We meet Russian emigrants, yearning writers, conniving retirees, and more. The true gem of the collection, however, can be found on the opposite coast with the novella, Eve in Hollywood.

Readers of Towles’ debut novel, Rules of Civility, will recall the effervescent Evelyn Ross. Here, we get to pursue her journey further as it plays out in the dreamy ‘City of Angels’ setting.

Why We Remember by Charan Ranganath

 

Have you ever wondered why you’re able to remember the lyrics to that song from your childhood, but not what you ate for lunch last Tuesday? According to neuroscientist and Professor of Psychology Dr Charan Ranganath, it has everything to do with emotions, intention, and even your imagination.

In this compelling new book, he dissects the phenomena of memory and shows how we weren’t designed to remember, in fact, but to forget!

Expect intriguing case studies and easily digestible explanations of the latest research on the topic. With its engaging discussions and Ranganath’s humorous touch, Why We Remember promises to be an unforgettable read.

 

Slow Productivity by Cal Newport

 

From the best-selling author of Deep Work comes another meticulous meditation on ‘productivity’ in the modern world, Slow Productivity. Our current understanding of what it means to be productive is broken, according to Cal Newport. We obsess over keeping ourselves busy with the idea that little-to-no rest must mean that we are accomplishing a lot.

However, with the aid of research, historical case studies, and demonstrated application, Newport proposes an alternative: “Do fewer things. Work at a natural pace. Obsess over quality.” He expands upon these principles throughout the book, showing how we can correct course and ultimately avoid burnout while still accomplishing a lot.

 

Maktub by Paulo Coelho

In the 30^th year anniversary of its original publication, Paulo Coelho’s Maktub has finally been given an English-language release. A compilation of some of his best columns printed in the newspaper Folha de São Paulo, Maktub is a tapestry of rich parable and tale woven together with beautiful line-art throughout. It promises to take the reader on a spiritual journey, shedding light on our interactions with the world and on our perennial search for meaning. Those who read and loved The Alchemist will find a similar comfort in the self-reflectivity of this “inspirational companion. Read more

 

How to hide inside a three by Jane van der Riet

 A local gem from clinical psychologist, anti-apartheid activist, and Cape Town’s very own Jane van der Riet. Set in the cushy Southern suburbs in 2017, Leigh-Anne grapples with a loveless marriage, unruly children, and an ominous letter from her father. Privy to her thoughts as her life unravels, she encounters the racist truths and mistruths within her, and is confronted with the guilt of a past misdeed. Whilst often light and humorous, this is, in the author’s own words, “a serious novel about whiteness and shame.” A debut with much to give, truly an enjoyable read. Read more

Victory City by Salman Rushdie

 From the master of magical realism himself, comes yet another dazzling triumph of fantastical literary fiction. After the tragic demise of her parents, Pampa Kampana is visited by a goddess who grants her supernatural power. From this she wills a great empire into existence, whispering its inhabitants to life. As the centuries pass, we are witness to its wars, its miracles, and to the girl who created it all… Stylised as the translation of a long-lost epic, Victory City is a gorgeous display of Rushdie’s ability to marry historical inspiration with his unbounded imagination. Read more

Yellowface by R. F. Kuang

 

Darkly humorous and starkly jarring, Kuang’s latest novel is a satirical take on the world of publishing.

Following the aftermath of a freak accident, June Hayward finds herself in possession of an unpublished manuscript by her (much) more successful friend. Does tweaking something really make it yours? And how far will she go to defend her claim over it? Equal parts funny and disturbing, Yellowface even ropes in the phenomenon of the ‘Twitter sleuth’ to further complicate matters.

Fans of Babel and the Poppy War trilogy will be pleased to know that Kuang’s strong style translates well from fantasy to literary fiction. Read More

Metamorphoses by Ovid

 

Written over 20 centuries ago, Ovid’s Metamorphoses is still considered one of the most influential literary works of its era. Loosely considered an epic, it recounts various myths and stories in chronological fashion, starting with Creation and ending with the death of Julius Caesar.

While it has undergone multiple translations since the original Latin, the latest by Stephanie McCarter is a welcome addition. A professor of classical literature, McCarter manages to capture the polished style of Ovid while surfacing some of the nuance in his work that has been lost in previous translations. Where others have preoccupied themselves with passion as a thematic thread, McCarter is interested in the dynamics of power, particularly in its abuse. Read More

Who will rule South Africa? by Adriaan Basson and Qaanitah Hunter

 

As Human Rights Day will be celebrated across the country next week, it is a good time to reflect on the state of our democracy.

Veteran journalists Adriaan Basson and Qaanitah Hunter take a look at the past 30 years under ANC rule, and set their predictions for the next five years in Who will rule South Africa? Incisive and sharp, they measure up the key parties and players, with a view towards what a collaborative future might look like. Read More

Bahari by Dina Macki

 

Step into the world of up-and-coming chef Dina Macki, as she explores her heritage through cuisine.

With over 90 mouth-watering recipes, Bahari is an exploration of the amalgam of influence that make up the Omani food culture. Littered with personal essays and the fascinating stories behind the ingredients, this award-winning cookbook deserves a spot in your kitchen. And did we mention how visually stunning it is? One finds themselves poring over the photography so much that they are pleasantly surprised to find that it is accompanied by delicious recipes too! Read More

Last Year’s Favourites

2023 was a year for the books. Three titles that entranced their readers, rippled across best seller lists, and swayed judges for some of the top awards, stand out. They delve into everything from totalitarianism to psychiatric treatments, nostalgia to betrayal, and displacement to empire.

Prophet Song by Paul Lynch

Claiming the coveted Booker Prize, Paul Lynch’s Prophet Song is hauntingly good. In a dystopian rendering of Ireland, in which an ultra-right nationalist party has seized control, violence and paranoia reign supreme.

We follow Eilish Stack, mother of four, as she tries to keep her family from being torn apart by the powers that be. Read against a backdrop of perennial war and mass displacement, Lynch’s novel comes at a critical time. Fear, loss, and hope swarm the pages, making for a compelling read. Claustrophobic in its pacing yet brilliantly executed, this is not a novel you will soon forget.

Time Shelter by Georgi Gospodinov

Originally published in 2020, Georgi Gospodinov’s Time Shelter was translated from its native Bulgarian into English in 2022. Winning the International Booker Prize, the novel presents us with the possibility of treating Alzheimer’s patients by ‘recreating’ bygone eras in which they had once felt secure. Different floors in a psychiatric clinic are made to look, with surgical precision, like a specific decade.

Replete with political and historical innuendoes, Gospodinov’s novel cleverly blurs the line between recollection and imagination; highlighting how the weaponization of nostalgia can have far-reaching consequences. Witty, heart-breaking, and profound, Time Shelter strikes at the core of that which we are all too often preoccupied with: Memory.

Trust by Hernan Diaz

Previously longlisted for the Booker Prize, Trust deservingly snatched up the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2023. Hernan Diaz’s sophomore novel is a literary delight of embedded, unfolding narratives; each one more shocking and revelatory than the last. Set in New York across the 20^th Century, the book explores the elusive life of a powerful financier and his enigmatic wife. Competing tales weave together a delicious tapestry of power, betrayal, and love.

Fans of the book will be delighted to learn that it is being adapted into a limited series at HBO (with Kate Winslet attached to star and produce!).

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Click here for more recommended reads, or vist Stellenbosch Books at 14 Andringa Street in Stellenbosch Central.