I can’t think of anything remotely comparable to this in South African historico-literary works – in subject conception and in its approach to subject matter, it really is a unique volume, fresh and strikingly idiosyncratic in its handling of subject matter. [Alex] Stone is a highly accomplished writer, with a prose fluency, an eye for freakish detail and an ability to compress things which mark him out as a gifted stylist. His ‘Dreams and Dust’ introduction is the best hook I’ve experienced in a long time – it tells you what to expect, makes what that is look tantalising, and reels you in. This is imaginative historical writing with a light and lively touch, while not dodging topics that are emotive and powerful. The text does a smart job of weaving its ‘snap-shot’ stories into the fabric of South Africa’s older and more contemporary past. This is a strikingly original work, written with panache. It makes an entertaining and informative book.
Bill Nasson
Emeritus Professor in History, Stellenbosch University and Fellow, Stellenbosch Institute of Advanced Study, Emeritus Professor and Fellow, University of Cape Town.
DIFFERENCE [is what] you are certainly offering. Who the hell ever dreamed of a book on 56 unheard-of countries and 20 imaginary ones? Dreams & Dust at least has to be in every bookshop from this time next year, for a second printing before Christmas.
Denis Beckett
Author of Flying with Pride: The Story of the South African Flag, Madibaland, Trekking: In Search of the Real South Africa, and The Fallacy of Heroes.
It is finely wrought, impressively researched, and solidly written.
David Robbins
Author of After the Dance.
BUY THIS BOOK