When Rain Clouds Gather
About the book
A South African refugee and an English newcomer try to transform farming in a Botswana village.
Africa · A READING GUIDE
Botswana
Bessie Head depicts refuge, prejudice against the Masarwa and struggles for mental balance and roots. Born in South Africa, she spent most of her adult life in Botswana. Unity Dow builds a story around seeking justice for a missing girl. Lauri Kubuitsile broadens the view to southern Africa’s colonial wars, the Herero genocide and women’s lives.
WHERE TO START
- When Rain Clouds GatherBessie Head
- The Screaming of the InnocentUnity Dow
- The ScatteringLauri Kubuitsile
Books to begin with
An editorial selection · not rankedNo matches. Try another language or search term.
Maru
About the book
A teacher from the marginalised Masarwa community exposes prejudice in a Botswana village.
A Question of Power
About the book
Elizabeth, a refugee from South Africa, experiences mental distress and seeks roots in Botswana.
The Screaming of the Innocent
About the book
New evidence about a missing girl sets off a struggle against corruption and impunity.
The Scattering
About the book
Two women struggle to survive the Herero genocide and the Boer War in southern Africa.
Far and Beyon’
About the book
A Botswana family faces loss and tension between tradition and modern aspirations.
Juggling Truths
About the book
Monei’s childhood in Mochudi reveals competing truths of missionaries, family and ancestors.
Context and sources
Sources on authors and their connections to this country. Specific edition details appear beside each book. Polish and English originals are not labelled as translations.
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