AS THE dysfunctional relationships explored in Ameera Patel’s debut novel play out, so the book’s title takes on its full meaning — just as a child colouring in outside the lines is not following the rules, so are the characters not doing what society requires of them.Nearly all the characters in Patel’s book are breaking rules in some or other deeply human way. Her storytelling is so vivid that the five principal characters, whose names head chapters, live on long after you have put down the novel.Patel is an award-winning playwright, actress, poet, and TV scriptwriter. Turning to fiction, she has courageously chosen a broad canvas for Outside The Lines.DetailsTITLE: Outside the LinesAUTHOR: Ameera PatelPUBLISHER: Modjaji Books(Penguin)Set in glitzy, gritty Johannesburg, a city about which Patel is passionate, the book examines the lives of five complex characters from three racial groups. It is both a thriller and family drama, although most of the action centres on two women.Cath...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.