Ruth First Books

An unforgettable account of defiance against political terror by one of South Africa's pioneering anti-apartheid activists An invaluable testimonial of the excesses of the apartheid system, 117 Days presents the harrowing chronicle of journalist Ruth First's isolation and abuse at the hands of South African interrogators after her arrest in 1963. Upon her arrest, she was detained in solitary confinement under South Africa's notorious ninety-day detention law. This is the story of the war of nerves that ensued between First and her Special Branch captors-a work that remains a classic portrait of oppression and the dignity of the human spirit. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.

Ruth First's life as an anti-apartheid activist is vividly depicted, highlighting her roles as a journalist and intellectual in South Africa. The book explores her experiences, including her imprisonment during the Treason Trial and her insights on significant events like the 1956 Women's March and the apartheid regime. An introductory essay by Vashna Jagarnath reflects on First's enduring legacy and contributions to the struggle against oppression, providing context to her impactful work and the historical backdrop of her activism.

Ruth First, eine weiße südafrikanische Journalistin und Gegnerin des Apartheids, wird 117 Tage in einem Johannesburg Gefängnis festgehalten. Ihre Isolationshaft wird von quälenden Verhören unterbrochen, die sie bis zum Selbstmordversuch treiben. Ein bewegender autobiografischer Bericht.