The Story of Lucky Simelane

by Robin Malan

Although several issues specific to South African culture are explored, this novel for both young readers and teachers—in which Lucky Simelane's quest for self-discovery eventually touches a raw nerve in the national psyche—raises universal questions pertaining to identity, ethnic origin, family, and belonging. Raised in a rural, black community and teased because of his light brown eyes and blond hair, Lucky's conflict reveals both his personal struggle for identity and the confusing public reaction to his cultural make-up.

128 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 2006

About the author

Robin Malan worked in English teaching and theatre in education all his life (his poetry anthologies Inscapes, New Inscapes and Worldscapes are among his many compilations for school use). He taught in the Department of Drama at Stellenbosch University and tutored in the English Department at the University of Cape Town. He did volunteer work for Triangle Project, the organisation caring for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community. In 2001 he was awarded the Molteno Medal for lifetime service to literature by the Cape Tercentenary Foundation, on the Council until his death.

Reviews

[Paula Soper · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my first South African novel, in preparation for our trip. It deals with race, identity, and the need to understand both, for Lucky and for the community.