Mother to Mother

More about the book

A searing novel told in letter form, exploring the South African legacy of apartheid through the perspective of a mother whose Black son has just murdered a white woman. The narrative serves as an emotional plea for compassion and understanding, while providing a sharp examination of the impacts of colonialism and apartheid on South African families. Inspired by the true story of Fulbright scholar Amy Biehl's murder, the book takes the form of a letter to the victim’s mother. The murderer’s mother, Mandisa, reflects on a life marked by oppression and injustice, revealing a colonized society that perpetuated violence against women and impoverished Black South Africans under apartheid. This work is not an apology for the murder but seeks to connect two grieving mothers through empathy and storytelling. A beautifully written exploration of the societal conditions that breed violence, this novel resonates with readers interested in understanding and addressing racial injustice and the enduring colonial foundations of oppression.