51 pages • 1 hour read
The Story of an African Farm
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Karoo, South Africa • 19th century
1883
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
Originally published under a pseudonym in 1883, Olive Schreiner’s The Story of an African Farm tells the tale of cousins Lyndall and Em, and their friendship with Waldo, the son of a German overseer, as they navigate life on a South African farm. The narrative explores themes of finding God and unity in nature, the value of education, and women’s status in marriage. The novel employs racist stereotypes and outdated and offensive language, and discusses death, infant death, and refers to suicide.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Melancholic
Challenging
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
3,034 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews of The Story of an African Farm by Olive Schreiner praise its pioneering feminist themes, rich characterization, and vivid depiction of South African life. However, some find the narrative structure disjointed and certain philosophical passages heavy-handed. Despite this, Schreiner's novel remains a significant work for its bold exploration of gender and societal issues.
Who Should Read The Story of an African Farm?
Readers who appreciate The Story of an African Farm by Olive Schreiner are typically intrigued by pioneering feminist literature and the complexities of colonial South Africa. Fans of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë or Middlemarch by George Eliot, which explore themes of independence and societal norms, will find this novel appealing.
3,034 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
336
Novel • Fiction
Karoo, South Africa • 19th century
1883
Adult
16-18 years
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