andrea fuller

Glenda’s captivating debut novel, Thembe’s Cloth, draws the reader in to the emotional struggles of the characters as they navigate their very different lives through challenges growing up in South Africa during apartheid. The story follows the lives of Ellen and her family, from the Xhosa tribe, which contrasts dramatically with the lifestyle and choices of the Graham family. Kristi, the Graham’s youngest daughter, forms a friendship and strong bond with Ellen and her daughter, Thembe. As a white child growing up, Kristi begins to gain insight into the injustices of the apartheid system. The privileges afforded Kristi are unavailable to Thembe (or any of Ellen’s family) and their vastly different life experiences under the apartheid system places barriers between Kristi and Thembe’s friendship. Thembe’s natural talent for music takes her on a fascinating but challenging journey, while her brother, Joseph, is determined to follow his almost impossible dream to become a doctor. Although the story is romanticised at times, I felt engaged with the heartfelt emotions of the characters. Tragedy and loss, love and compassion, ambition, loyalty, jealousy and determination thread through the story. All the characters are well developed and their entwined life paths weave a wonderful, rich tapestry. The author’s experience growing up in Kokstad, South Africa can be felt in her passion and love of the country. Glenda’s evocative descriptions of the landscape, sights, sounds and scents, leave lasting memories, as do the characters. The scenes of Gogo, Thembe and Joseph’s grandmother, in her village, stoking the fire early in the morning outside the kraal, with the mountains in the background, is just one image that has stayed with me long after finishing Thembe’s Cloth. I love the strength of the female characters, Ellen, Gogo, Thembe, Kristi and Mrs Graham and the wisdom and compassion of the elder women in particular. I enjoyed the inclusion of Xhosa language and insights into the spiritual and cultural rituals. We need so much more ‘Ubuntu’, kindness and compassion in this world and perhaps that is the author’s message. Glenda’s beautiful illustrations highlight the unique quality of this very special book; a delight to read.