From the writer of The Hundred Year Old Man who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared comes yet another classic. This book combines sheer reality with humour to give a beautiful combination of comedy and wit. The story is told in third person, switching from focusing on one character to another, but mostly on a girl named Nombeko and her journey through life.
Nombeko is born at a time when South Africans are discriminated against, in a small shanty town and not a very bright future in front of her; however, this doesn't stop the young girl. With her talent for absorbing anything she ever lays her eyes on, she truly shows how age does not hinder one from brilliance. After a few deaths, a wide variety of jobs and two very ironic car accidents, she eventually ends up in the small, friendly country of Sweden. The story doesn't end here however, as her past comes to haunt her in the form of a secret agency and three clingy Chinese sisters. Combined with two very extraordinary twin brothers and a pillow factory, she's in for a heck of a ride.
Personally, I believe this book is an absolute gem. Nombeko is truly a character that will never be forgotten: she's strong, intelligent and purely sarcastic with everything she does. The story includes so many twists and turns, not to mention random amusing events that will have you laughing for hours. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a intelligent read with a witty twist.
• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop.
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