A Man Who Is Not a Man

A well narrated story on a very controversial topic on traditional circumcision practiced in many parts of Africa. But the author’s focus was in the Eastern Cape where a young man lay bare of the situation in that part of the region. I have lot of Xhosa friends and there is not a single one that I ha......more

Traditional male circumcision is not a new concept in Africa. When I read the synopsis of this book I was quite interested in getting to know more about the botched circumcisions and the aftermath it carries. Thando weaved a moving story with this book. The only criticism I can give this book is tha......more

Okay, I do not have a penis. But, reading the torment of the author dealing with gangrene of the penis makes all folks (penis or not) quiver with revulsion. Mgqolozana details his rites of passage where in boys undergo a circumcision ceremony including an 8-day seclusion for healing and prostration.......more

The book is significant because it tells a story from a perspective that is not listened to where this happens and perhaps that is why everyone chooses to describe it as "brave". Bravery, I think, does not acknowledge the skill and talent of the author. Mgqolozana creates characters that explore sub......more

Through experiences of teenage protagonist, Lumkile, the author manages to bravely broach the emotive,sensitive and taboo subject of botched circumcision. In the prologue the main character asserts. “You may be the type that would like to think of a person like me as someone who has shamed your sacre......more