THROUGH IT ALL By Teboho Masakala

Review by Rebaone Motsalane

I was very reluctant to read this book, if I had another choice I would have over looked it. It is sad how sometimes first impressions last.

This is after most writers came hard on me when I critically reviewed Masakala first book, Mind, Pen, Paper and Ideas last year. Many said that I was too hard considering that it was his first attempt. But am I glad that I did critically analyze him otherwise I doubt he would have improved this much. And I am glad that with a bitter taste in my mouth I read it and also that he was not dismayed but through it all (criticisms) he managed to pen another one, I call this bravery from both sides !

He seemed to have considered those sore points and rising up to the level where he should be. Through it all is so much better and was worth reading.

Masakala is showing signs of maturity in his thinking and writing. He has left behind his boyish approach to writing and now into adulthood or should I say manhood.

He totally caught me off especially the ending of this book. The story is about an orphaned girl sexually abused by his uncle who turned into prostitute. Though I was expecting a happy ending, I never thought he would tackle the most important part of survival, spirituality.

From the beginning he never gave away his ending and just when you think you know how it will ends he takes the reader by surprise and give this beautiful ending.

However he should note that he should be able to keep the interest of the reader and maintain it throughout. I know I have left many books unfinished just because I could not be bothered to finish them. Great ending!


Though he might have improved and polished his writing it is clear he refused to take my advice on some issues, the book in has seven chapters but pages are not numbered and he adhered to his style of making long paragraphs. I am hopeful this will be addressed in the third book? You have that potential untapped it fully and don’t personalize criticism as I am not in the business of destroying dreams and careers, its only meant to build you up!

*Courtesy of Mangaung Issue

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…”