The Keep

More about the book

Set in 1930s Johannesburg, the Leyton family grapples with their Russian-Jewish heritage amid a racially divided society. Rayfel, the father, seeks political influence through liberal democracy, while his wife Freda yearns for excitement beyond their mundane life. Their daughter Josephine possesses deep empathy and insight, contrasting with her wild brother Simon, who embodies raw nature. The family's attempts to navigate their alien surroundings ultimately lead to their downfall, leaving only Simon to confront the lingering threats of their environment.