The Meaning of a Life: A South African Scientist’s Tale
Wieland Gevers
The Meaning of a Life: A South African Scientist’s Tale is a frank and full account of how chance and opportunity shape the life of a scientist. It reflects on how the elusive qualities responsible for survival and eventual success can be retrospectively identified, with lessons for young and hopeful individuals who might wish to follow a similar path.
This book aims to demystify the interplay between professional and public/private lives, revealing how one’s inner self and family are affected as a career unfolds. The narrative maps onto the history of South Africa, by including aspects of ancestry and inherited culture, while describing the life-path of one individual in the academic sphere who sought to change, and in some key instances did change, the basic workings of higher education and research as the country went through massive transitions. Readers will see into many aspects of the behind-the-scenes workings of academia, usually hidden from public view, which may significantly affect their lives or those of their communities. A must-read for all citizens, especially those interested in the lives of academics and in understanding university life.
“This is beautifully written and takes the reader on an eight-decade journey of a consummate scholar, teacher and active citizen whose life has touched and shaped many in South Africa and elsewhere, either directly or indirectly. It is a joyous celebration of life lived to the full by one of the country’s most gifted scientists and prolific nurturer of multiple generations of scholars. The Meaning of a Life is a must-read and a difficult-to-put-down treat for students, academics, university leaders and active citizens.” (Mamphela Ramphele, Founder and Patron of Reimagine SA
“Arguably one of South Africa’s two or three foremost science citizens, Wieland Gevers is an academic journeyman who behind the scenes helped build the formidable architecture that birthed the Academy of Science of South Africa, defended the modern qualifications system of our universities, and established several world-class biomedical science centres. Mentored by two Nobel Prize winners, he gave up a prestigious career overseas to underpin the transformation of universities after apartheid by attending to the nuts and bolts of higher education reform. An institution builder who shunned the limelight, South Africa owes this remarkable man an immense debt of gratitude. Inspiring, accessible, and deeply moving, read this outstanding book and discover why.” (Jonathan Jansen, Distinguished Professor of Education, Stellenbosch University)
Full title: The Meaning of a Life
Subtitle: A South African Scientist’s Tale
Author: Wieland Gevers
Publication: BestRed
ISBN: 978-1-928246-68-8
Format: 216 x 138 mm
Extent: 336 pp
Price: R320
Myth and Reality in South Africa’s History: A Conflicted Past
Christopher Merrett
History matters. Some wish to bury it; others wish to use it selectively for their own purposes. But, for any nation, it must be confronted honestly. Just as the Freedom Charter proclaims that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, so does its history. The country was liberated by its people, not one specific group.
Myth and Reality in South Africa’s History: A Conflicted Past is a collection of 80 newspaper opinion pieces and feature articles published over 30 years. These pieces examine significant past lives, movements and events, and interpret their contemporary significance for a general readership. The focus is on individuals and organisations that have often been neglected in post-liberation discourse, which tends to exaggerate the role of certain movements.
The intention was to challenge a monochrome version of national history by emphasising pluralism and diversity. Underlying themes include a continued belief in universal human rights, individual empowerment and psychological liberation in the face of power, both under and after apartheid.
The chapters are arranged by broad chronology regardless of date of publication to produce a historical narrative, unified by a brief introduction to modern South African history.
“A serious columnist needs an incisive mind, clear writing style and unwavering courage. Christopher Merrett ticks all these boxes. Myth and Reality is an important barometer reading of our times.” (John Conyngham, former editor of The Witness)
“Christopher Merrett’s counter-narrative eloquently reminds us of the hidden history the new elite has forgotten. If ever there were a book that confirms the relevance of a critical press, this compilation cements that legacy for The Witness.” (Keyan Tomaselli, Distinguished Professor, Humanities, University of Johannesburg)
Full title: Myth and Reality in South Africa’s History
Subtitle: A Conflicted Past
Author: Christopher Merrett
Publication: BestRed
ISBN: 978-1-928246-69-5
Format: 235 x 168 mm
Extent: 304 pp
Price: R495
Contact: skhan@hsrc.ac.za
For orders, please contact:
Local: orders@blueweaver.co.za
International: cservice@rienner.com
View the new catalogue here.
