Beware – one book can change your life

A year or two ago, I was approached at a book fair by a woman with an American accent. She told me a story I can’t resist sharing.

Some twenty years back, while visiting London, Carole picked up a copy of my first book, The Innocence of Roast Chicken, at Harrods. It sparked in her a great interest in South Africa, which culminated in a trip to see it for herself.

And while she was here … she met a man. And yes, they got married. The romantic in me loves that story. I like to think it’s because of me. What could be more wonderful than to think a book you wrote changed someone’s life so profoundly?

It certainly changed mine.

Now, some twenty years later, I’m immensely proud that Pan Macmillan has rereleased it, as part of their prestigious Picador Africa Heritage Classics Collection, where it has joined books by writers such as Ellen Kuzwayo, Frank Chikane, Nelson Mandela, Winnie Madikizela Mandela, Pallo Jordan and Johan Steyn.

If you’re in Johannesburg or Cape Town, please join me to celebrate. The novel, packaged with new material, will be relaunched at Love Books, Melville on 30 October at 6 for 6.30pm.

I’ll be in discussion with Professor Lesley Cowling. I’d love to share a celebratory glass with you. Please RSVP kate@lovebooks.co.za.

Or join me on 7 November at Exclusives Cavendish, also 6 for 6.30pm, where I’ll be in conversation with novelist and poet Finuala Dowling. Please RSVP events@exclusivebooks.co.za.

The book is available in all good South African bookstores. If your local doesn’t have it, they’ll be happy to order it. Alternatively, have it delivered by Takealot.com, who are offering a launch discount. If you prefer to read digitally, The Innocence of Roast Chicken is also available as an ebook on Amazon or Kobo.