XIJAHATANA by MC Lubisi
(Maskew Miller Longman) R59,95
This interesting book, on the theme of perseverance, is about the agony of a boy (Misaveni) who goes in search of truth after he discovers he was stolen from his biological mother by the woman he has always known as his mother.
After encountering many difficulties he finally manages to locate his biological mother. At the start of the book the author introduces ÂMisaveni, who is confused because the woman he has always believed to be his mother told him, before lapsing into unconsciousness, that this is not so, but she dies before she can tell him who his mother is.
The boy sets on a journey to Âdiscover the truth. The first person he asks is his uncle, Bilankulu, who confirms that indeed he does not belong to the family of the dead woman.
He finds out that his biological mother once worked on farms in Duiwels Kloof, now known as Modjadji’s Kloof, in Limpopo.
Although he has never set foot there, Misaveni, sad, confused and bitter, vows to go in search of her.
When he finally reaches ModÂjadji’s Kloof he meets a man called Fahlaza Mashimbye, who puts him in touch with locals who give him further leads. On his way he gets a lift from Mudau, who gives him accommodation for a night. Little does he know that this “Good Samaritan” is involved in trafficking human parts and has targeted Misaveni.
But Mudau’s daughter, Humbulani, tips Misaveni off and helps him escape. She also puts him in touch with a woman who points him in the right direction and there he discovers that he was indeed stolen from his mother. In the end he is reunited with his mother and Âmarries ÂHumbulani.
The novel, which sustains the reader’s interest right through, concentrates on the main character, Misaveni, with other characters, apart from Humbulani, playing only minor roles.
The author uses simple language accessible to today’s learners and readers are exposed to Xitsonga idioms, which Misaveni uses when he is deep in thought.
The lesson to be learned from the story is that perseverance is the mother of success. Misaveni encounters a number of hurdles but his tenacity pays off. I recommend this novel for grade 10 learners.
Christina Hlatshwayo is a teacher at Vumbeni Primary School in Katlehong, east of Gauteng