A review by maryquitecontrary_22
Child of the River by Irma Joubert

4.0

I had some doubts when I opened up the cover and saw that the book starts with a glossary, (this novel has been translated from the author's native Afrikaans into English) but I was pleasantly surprised with the writing. Joubert beautifully entwines the history of South Africa from WWII to the days of Apartheid with a fictional story about a strong-willed heroine named Persomi who battles prejudice-- aimed at her socioeconomic status as well as others' ethnicity and religion-- to one day find value and meaning in her life. If you enjoy historical fiction, strong female lead characters, and a bit of romance, you'll love Child of the River.