THROUGH IT ALL. By Teboho Masakala

Thaba Nchu (in Free State, South Africa)

On 15 April 2011, Selosesha Library in Thaba Nchu came alive as Teboho Masakala launched his work of fiction, Through it all.

The Hall was packed with learners from different schools in Thaba Nchu who came to witness the book launch. Guests included Sechaba Marumo, Ditlhare Mabitle and Job Mzamo.

Thamsanqa Job Mzamo, illustrious author of the anthology of poems, Pride of my Heart is already a celebrated poet of international repute. As a polished versifier, his support on the day was invaluable.

On his part, Sechaba Marumo, an author of the motivational book Be the best you can be encouraged learners of different schools to use their talent and to be proud of their place of birth. “They must also be encouraged to read. Do not compete with useless things, but rather compete academically,”

Marumo also highlighted his background and encouraged students to take their studies seriously. He was followed by Mrs. Ditlhare Mabitle who encouraged the use of mother tongue languages: “a reading nation is a winning nation”. Mr. Mzamo in his articulate way also encouraged learners to be writers, and to read.

The distinguished creative African writer and novelist, O Bolaji has already written about THROUGH IT ALL, inter alia: “Teboho’s debut novel focuses on a certain young woman and her vicissitudes. The protagonist is Monica Classen who is dragged through the mill! After the death of her parents, she is unfortunately raped by her own uncle, an exceedingly harrowing experience for her.

She decides to flee Thaba Nchu and start a new life in Bloemfontein, but her ordeal is not over; not by a long shot. More painful episodes await her till in the end, like a deus ex machina all is well with her, and her sorrows are behind her. Read this moving work and ponder..."

Excerpt from the book (exemplifying the sad metamorphosis of Monica): “Monica (who had been) fragile, kind-hearted, was now this weak, controlled drugs loving, money hungry Monica…the city of Bloemfontein had swallowed her and was not prepared to throw her up anytime soon as there was no way out…”