Neil Sonnekus’s debut novel, Son, has just been released, and it is already being hailed as a classic post-apartheid read.Though funny at times, the book is also achingly poignant and deeply moving. It captures what it means to be a white man in SA, confronting a rapid loss of power while struggling to come to terms with stark sociopolitical change.Sonnekus’s main character is recent divorcé Len Bezuidenhout, whose quest for sex makes for some of the funniest reading, while his relationship with his puritanical old father is pretty gritty.Son is a profound journey of compassion and self-understanding, and though it is dark in parts, it carries the colours of a rainbow nation.
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.