steve_angelkov's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
5.0
This is a gripping and harrowing account of a group of photojournalists who covered the brutal conflict in South Africa during the turbulent years leading up to the end of apartheid. This book provides a unique and intimate perspective on the realities of war and the toll it takes on both the individuals involved and the society as a whole.
Marinovich, who was one of the members of the "Bang-Bang Club," offers a deeply personal and honest narrative that transports readers into the heart of the violence and chaos. Through his vivid descriptions and powerful storytelling, he effectively conveys the fear, adrenaline, and moral dilemmas faced by the photographers who risked their lives to capture the truth.
What sets this book apart is its exploration of the psychological and emotional impact of chronic exposure to violence. Marinovich delves into the moral ambiguities faced by these photojournalists, who constantly found themselves torn between their duty to bear witness and their own safety. The author's introspective reflections on the effects of trauma on the human psyche are both poignant and thought-provoking.
Marinovich provides a comprehensive background on the political climate in South Africa at the time, offering readers a deeper understanding of the social injustices and tensions that fueled the conflict. This contextualization adds depth and nuance to the narrative, allowing readers to grasp the complexities of apartheid and its violent aftermath.
While the subject matter of this book is undeniably heavy, Marinovich's writing style manages to maintain a compelling and accessible tone throughout. He expertly balances the personal stories of the photographers with the larger historical events, making this book both informative and engaging.
becca_mint's review
4.0
The poignant account of South Africa’s 1990-1994 apartheid told through the eyes of a photojournalist and his friends; mournful and powerful, albeit not seamless.
I recommend to anyone who is willing to learn about this subject.
I recommend to anyone who is willing to learn about this subject.
sigridedson's review
5.0
I can't really say that I enjoyed reading this... I cried a bunch of times and I definitely would not recommend reading it right before bed. However, I would recommend reading it literally any other time. I felt such empathy for the people the book was about and I learned so much about politics, history, industry, war, trauma, and photography. I feel attached to everything about this book. 5/5. Phenomenal.
rhodered's review
4.0
Admission: I bought this book because I know one of the journalists who is included in it. He's a happily settled father in New England now, where the closest war zone is the school soccer field, but this book gives such an incredibly vivid street-view of the ugliness of war that I sometimes wonder how strange "regular" life must seem to him.
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