55 pages • 1 hour read
Kaffir Boy
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Book Brief
354
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
South Africa • 1960s-1980s
1986
Adult
16+ years
970L
Super Short Summary
Kaffir Boy: The True Story of a Black Youth's Coming of Age in Apartheid South Africa by Mark Mathabane recounts his life in a poverty-stricken black ghetto during apartheid, detailing his family's struggles with police harassment, hunger, and pass laws. Through his mother's determination, Mathabane excels in school, discovers tennis, and ultimately earns a scholarship to the U.S., escaping oppressive conditions. Topics include racism, police brutality, and intense poverty.
Informative
Unnerving
Challenging
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
17,099 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane is widely acclaimed for its raw and compelling portrayal of life under apartheid in South Africa. Praise is directed at its vivid, unflinching narrative and the inspirational journey of the author. However, some readers find the graphic descriptions difficult to digest. Overall, the memoir is recognized as a powerful, thought-provoking work.
Who Should Read Kaffir Boy?
A reader who would enjoy Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane is likely engaged with autobiographies and stories of overcoming adversity. They appreciate themes of social justice, apartheid, and personal triumph. Fans of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou or Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela may find similar inspiration and depth.
17,099 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mrs. Mathabane
Mrs. Mathabane
A devoted mother of seven who defied her husband to send her children to school, fostering an optimistic and loving environment in the face of poverty.
Jackson Mathabane
Jackson Mathabane
An illiterate man from a tribal reserve who resisted his son's educational ambitions and believed in traditional tribal and witchcraft practices.
Granny
Granny
The author’s maternal grandmother, who worked as a gardener for white families and was a constant supporter of her grandson.
354
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
South Africa • 1960s-1980s
1986
Adult
16+ years
970L
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