A Bekkersdal Marathon, by Herman Charles Bosman (used, hardcover)

The pieces in this selection were all produced during the final year and a half of Bosman's life. They first appeared in The Forum as a weekly series entitled "In die Voorkamer."

In contrast to the Oom Schalk Louren’s stories, these are all basically recordings of conversations. Those taking part are a group of Marico farmers - Chris Welman, Gysbert van Tonder, who is known to be the biggest cattle smuggler in the district, At Naudé, who listens to the radio and reads the papers, Oupa Bekker, the oldest inhabitant of the district, and young Johnny Coen. And, of course, the schoolmaster, young Vermaak, who often finds himself the butt of the others' remarks.

In the course of these conversations, as points of view are expounded and insults are bandied, these people are brought to life with all their foibles and idiosyncrasies. The humour is light and true Bosman and the comments have the usual edge.

Condition: worn