Book Review: A day of unity and love through literature in Polokwane

In Polokwane, the Timbuktu Book Club hosted a vibrant gathering to celebrate Shaffinaz Hassim’s new book, “Darlings of Durban.” This book club brings together a mix of people from all walks of life, democratising reading, and hosts meetings both in-person and online, making it a unique community event.

“Darlings of Durban” shares the story of four women in a WhatsApp group, facing life’s challenges together. Shaffinaz, already loved by the club for her past books, presented a story that was easy to read and deeply relatable, capturing many hearts. What stood out even more was the participation of three kids – Jabir, Jedelin, and S’thandwa – who were enchanted by Shaffinaz children’s books, the Nisa Qamar series, and asked deep questions about the stories.

This interaction highlighted the book club’s welcoming nature, showing that it’s a place where even the youngest can share their thoughts on literature. The event celebrated not just Shaffinaz’s latest success but also the joy of reading and the connections it fosters, proving that stories can bring people together.

Everyone left feeling a deeper appreciation for storytelling and the friendships it creates. The next meeting looks promising, focusing on Eskia Mphahle’s “Down Second Avenue” and exploring African literature, marking May’s Africa Day celebrations. This event wasn’t just a book launch; it was a testament to the club’s spirit of unity and love for literature.