Higher Than Hope: Nelson Mandela's Biography on his 70th Birthday, compiled by Fatima Meer

Higher Than Hope is an extraordinary account of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela – Ah! Madiba! – and his times, and covers the most significant period of the African National Congress (1940–1960). It also covers the most formative two decades of the existing turmoil in South African politics, and is a broad sweep of the black political formations of the time.

The historical dynamic is viewed through the personal experience of Pollsmoor prisoner Nelson Mandela.

It is an affectionate gift for Nelson Mandela's 70th birthday, researched meticulously and written with compassion and rare insight by sociologist Professor Fatima Meer, from within, as a companion on the journey and family friend.

Included are intimate letters to and from Nelson Mandela, the man and not the myth. Professor Meer has provided a living portrait of a great South African, and comprehensively answers the eternal question: Who is Mandela?