The Promise by Damon Galgut
This novel delves into the lives of a white South African family over several decades, tracing the country's transition from apartheid to democracy. At the heart of the story is a broken promise made to Salome, a black woman who works for the family, to gift her a house. This unfulfilled commitment serves as a metaphor for the broader societal promises of justice and equity that remain unkept. Through the lens of one family's complex dynamics, betrayals, and secrets, the narrative explores themes of guilt, racial tensions, and the struggle for redemption, reflecting on the challenges of reconciling with the past in a changing South Africa.
The 8587th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 2021
- Nationality
- South African
- Length
- Medium
- Pages
- 292
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
-
(3.5)
- Alternate Titles
-
- A Promessa
- Das Versprechen
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following 4 lists:
- 27th on Honorable Mention - The 25 Masterpieces of World Literature That Will Define the 21st Century (25-250) (Télérama)
- 30 top books about Africa (MalWarwickOnBooks) (MalWarwickOnBooks)
- Booker Prize (Booker Prize)
- The Big Jubilee Read (BBC)