By Fakkellig by Karel Schoeman

By Fakkellig by Karel Schoeman (Afrikaans)

Hardcover, ISBN 9780798101882
Publisher: Human & Rousseau, 1977

Condition: Good. The original boards with a DJ are a little shelf rubbed and edge worn. This book was read and enjoyed but is still overall good. The book has a neat name inscription and the binding is excellent. Pages are slightly tanned. Overall, still good. The book is protected with a Cellophane cover. Pencil notes throughout.

Schoeman is one of a handful of Afrikaans authors who has achieved real greatness in his own lifetime. His prizes include the Hertzog prize for prose three times (1970, 1986, 1995), the CNA prize (1972), the Helgaard Steyn prize (1988), the W.A. Hofmeyr prize and the Old Mutual prize for literature/fiction (1984, 1991). His work investigates the existence of the Afrikaner in Africa, especially those that came from Europe.

After completing his schooling in Paarl, he went on to study a B.A. at the University of the Free State before going to a Catholic Seminary in Pretoria. In 1961 he joined the Franciscan Order in Ireland as a noviciate for priesthood but then returned to Bloemfontein to continue studying Librarianship. Before returning to South Africa for good in 1983, he was a librarian in Amsterdam as well as a nurse in Glasgow. Back in South Africa he continued writing and working as a librarian in Cape Town. He currently lives in Trompsburg.