Shirley, Goodness and Mercy

Despite Van Wyk's later becoming involved in the anti-apartheid struggle, this is not a book about racial politics. Instead, it is a delightful account of one boy's special relationship with the relatives, friends and neighbors—often decidedly quirky—who made up his community, and of the important coping role laughter and humor played during the years he spent in bleak, dusty townships. Chris van Wyk has created a truly remarkable record of life in the black community at once informative and vastly entertaining.