Category: Book chat

Book chat with Fatima H

Get to know us through the books we read! This month we chat to Fatima Halday. Fatima is the Head of Communication at the Language Centre and manages the English and Comms Lab portfolios.

“I’m passionate about teaching and learning and I just love working with people. I’m a lifelong learner myself and I pursue knowledge and skills for personal and professional development.” When she finds the opportunity to read for leisure, she opts for books about psychology, human behaviour (the good and not so good kind), relationships, and “the interconnectedness of individuals and societies as it offers unique perspectives on how we can make sense of ourselves, others, and life”.

What is the title of your favourite book, or a book that had a great impact on you, or a book that is memorable for some reason?

The Forty Rules of Love, written by Elif Shafak.

Why did this book make such an impression on you?

This book is told through the parallel stories of Rumi, the legendary 13th-century poet, and Ella Rubenstein, a woman in her forties who feels lost and unfulfilled. She starts working as a reader for a literary agency and comes across a manuscript that changes her life. The manuscript is about the famous Sufi poet Rumi and his relationship with his mentor, Shams Tabrizi.

Through Rumi’s story, we learn about the forty rules of love. Each chapter is built around one of the rules of love from Rumi’s poetry. These 40 rules work as the book’s moral compass, showing the characters (and us) what one should be guided by in life. The book has well-defined characters with unique perspectives and deep emotions.

These rules are beautifully woven into the narrative and offer profound wisdom about love, life and spirituality. One of the most compelling characters in the book is Shams Tabrizi, who transforms Rumi from a reserved scholar into a passionate poet. Shams is a controversial figure who challenges the traditional norms of religion, society and morality. He teaches Rumi the true meaning of love, which goes beyond physical attraction or emotional attachment.

In Ella’s story, we see a modern-day woman who has a comfortable life, a husband and children, but who feels something is missing. Her journey starts with the reading of the manuscript and continues with her interactions with Aziz Zahara, a Sufi dervish who helps her understand the rules of love. Through her journey, Ella learns to confront her fears, embrace her true self, and take charge of her life.

The Forty Rules of Love is philosophical and explores the nature of love, faith, and human existence. With every chapter, Rumi shares poignant lessons on love, friendship, spirituality, and more. These rules not only apply to the characters in the story, but also extend to the reader’s life. Each lesson adds depth to the story and helps readers connect with and analyse their personal life philosophy. It challenges our preconceptions and encourages us to seek our own truth. It is a book that can be read multiple times, each time revealing a new layer of meaning.

Who is (are) your favourite author(s)? Also tell us why?

I used to read a lot of fiction and my favourite authors are John Grisham, Dan Brown and Karin Slaughter, because I enjoy thrillers. For the past few years, however, I have mostly been reading non-fiction books. The most recent ones are from the School of Life series of books. A lot of the non-fiction I read is based on psychology, philosophy, culture, people and life, which are all topics that interest me. I like learning about new concepts and perspectives.

What are you reading at the moment?

I am currently reading The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday.

Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?

I prefer reading physical books, but have recently started reading books from the Kindle app on my phone. Some books that I purchased from Amazon took a very long time to arrive, so if it is a book that is not available in South Africa, I prefer buying the Kindle e-book version. Forty Rules of Love was one of the first e-books I read on my phone, and I found it convenient because the chapters are quite short, so I was able to read a few pages or chapters whenever I had a free moment. I am also currently reading The Daily Stoic on my Kindle app.

Books at Fatima’s bedside

What book have you re-read? Also tell us why?

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It is beautifully written and entertaining, but it also teaches us important lessons about life. It teaches us that the universe conspires to help people achieve their dreams, but they must be willing to take risks and make sacrifices to achieve their goals. It also emphasises how important it is to follow one’s own path in life and not to be deterred by obstacles and setbacks. One of the main themes of the book is pursuing your passion and exploring your true calling in life, no matter how difficult the journey may be. The book has many profound messages about finding courage, positive thinking, overcoming challenges, and pursuing one’s dreams. It is a good read if one needs inspiration and motivation.

Who is your favourite literary character?

I have two. Heidi, and Jo March from Little Women.

Have you perhaps learnt a life lesson from a book or character that you would like to share with us (if this hasn’t come up in one of your answers already)?

I’d like to share a few quotes that mean a lot to me:

East, West, South or North makes little difference. No matter what your destination, just be sure to make every journey, a journey within. If you travel within, you’ll travel the whole wide world and beyond.”

– The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak

Fret not where the road will take you. Instead concentrate on the first step. That is the hardest part and that is what you are responsible for. Once you take that step let everything do what it naturally does and the rest will follow. Don’t go with the flow. Be the flow.”

– The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak

I was assailed by memories of a life that wasn’t mine anymore, but one in which I’d found the simplest and most lasting joys.”

– The Stranger by Albert Camus

6 October 2023Tags: Albert Camus, choices, Dan Brown, Elif Shafak, English learning, John Grisham, Karin Slaughter, lifelong learning, Little Women, Paulo Coelho, philosophy, Ryan Holiday, The Alchemist, The Daily Stoic, The Forty Rules of Love, The Stranger

Book chat with Jesse B

Get to know us through the books we read! This month we chat to Jesse Beukes, an intern in the Language Centre’s English portfolio.

Jesse completed her undergrad studies at Wits University, with majors in English literature and psychology, a perfect blend of her interests, she says. “From a young age, books and reading have been an inseparable part of my life. It’s a passion lovingly instilled and nurtured by my mother. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic I moved to Stellenbosch, where I now continue to explore my academic, professional and personal pursuits.”

What is the title of your favourite book, or a book that had a great impact on you, or a book that is memorable for some reason?

The Alchemist, a novel written by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, first published in 1988.

Why did this book make such an impression on you?

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho holds a special place in my heart and has made an enduring impression on me. Through the tale of Santiago, a young shepherd boy from a small Andalusian town, the book teaches us about the importance of following our hearts, embracing the present moment, and finding meaning in our personal legends.

I will forever hold dear the lessons of The Alchemist, which empower readers (including myself) to embrace the force of living authentically.”

Also, I would love to mention Oh, The Places You Will Go by the great Dr Suess. This book’s message is similar to that of the The Alchemist, and it has inspired and motivated me through many years of living and all the ebbs and flows that came with them.

Who is (are) your favourite author(s)? Also tell us why?

I must confess that it is nearly impossible for me to select just one. However, if I were to provide a list containing the names of my favourite authors, the name Toni Morrison will without a doubt be featured. I discovered her texts during my studies at university, and I soon learnt why her powerful literature and firm exploration of race and identity have earned her a place among the literary greats.

Furthermore, I refuse to omit the names of Dr Suess and Roald Dahl from this list! These two authors have been carving my being and beliefs since I was very young, and inspired me to continue reading throughout my life. Their stories and characters are so special to many people across the world, allowing readers a look at life through words, colours, things and places that exceed the boundaries of imagination.

What are you reading at the moment?

I am currently reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, published in 2020. This novel has captured my attention with its imaginative premise and compelling narrative, and I quickly found myself immersed in the story of the main character, Nora Seed. Haig’s touching exploration of regrets and second chances later caused me to anticipate the revelations and lessons that await within each chapter.

Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?

I prefer physical books over e-books because I simply love the feeling of holding a book in my hands. I especially love hardcover books for their longevity and the way they add a touch of charm or grandeur to my reading experience. Also, I dream of one day having a huge floor-to-ceiling library with lots of shelves absolutely spilling over with books.

What book have you re-read? Also tell us why?

I love to revisit the pages of The Great Gatsby time and again, due to the masterful storytelling skills of F. Scott Fitzgerald. In this novel, Fitzgerald transports readers directly into the Jazz Age, and through his complex characters and exploration of different societal themes, he creates an immersive experience that I love to relive.

Who is your favourite literary character?

Although Santiago, the young shepherd boy from The Alchemist, remains very dear to me, The BFG (The Big Friendly Giant), created by the ingenious Roald Dahl, holds the position of my all-time favourite. The BFG‘s unforgettable presence is the result of a special combination of kindness, bravery and childlike wonder, which has set enduring standards for me in various aspects of my life. His tender nature and commitment to doing what is right have the power to inspire readers of all ages and I recommend his story to one and all – you could even watch the movie.

Have you perhaps learnt a life lesson from a book or character that you would like to share with us (if this hasn’t come up in one of your answers already)?

I would like to refer back to the two books mentioned in my first answer, The Alchemist, and Oh, The Places You Will Go, by providing a quote from each:

And when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” – Coelho in The Alchemist

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” – Dr Seuss in Oh, The Places You Will Go

4 August 2023Tags: Dr Suess, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Matt Haig, Oh, Paulo Coelho, Roald Dahl, The Alchemist, The BFG, The Great Gatsby, The Midnight Library, The Places You Will

Boekgeselsie met Jesse B

Leer ons ken deur die boeke wat ons lees! Vandeesmaand gesels ons met Jesse Beukes, ŉ intern in die Taalsentrum se Engels-portefeulje.

Jesse het ŉ graad aan die Universiteit van die Witwatersrand behaal, met Engelse letterkunde en sielkunde as hoofvakke – ŉ perfekte versnit van haar belangstellings, sê sy. “Van jongs af was boeke en lees ŉ onlosmaaklike deel van my lewe. Ek dink dis diep voorliefdes waarmee my ma definitief iets te doen het. Gedurende die Covid-19-pandemie het ek Stellenbosch toe getrek, waar ek nou voortgaan om my akademiese, professionele en persoonlike belangstellings uit te leef.”

Wat is die titel van jou gunstelingboek, of ŉ boek wat ŉ diep indruk op jou gemaak het, of ŉ boek wat jy om die een of ander rede as onvergeetlik ervaar het?

The Alchemist, ŉ roman deur die Brasiliaanse outeur Paulo Coelho, wat in 1988 vir die eerste keer verskyn het.

Hoekom het hierdie boek jou so beïndruk?

The Alchemist deur Paulo Coelho het ŉ blywende indruk op my gemaak en beklee ŉ spesiale plek in my hart. Deur die verhaal te vertel van Santiago, ŉ jong skaapwagter uit ŉ klein Andalusiese dorpie, leer die boek ons hoe belangrik dit is om ŉ mens se eie hart te volg, die huidige oomblik te koester en betekenis in jou eie legendes te vind.

Ek dra die lesse van The Alchemist, wat lesers (vir my ook) leer in welke mate dit ŉ mens bemagtig om op ŉ outentieke manier te lewe, vir ewig saam met my.”

Verder wil ek graag Oh, The Places You Will Go deur die grote dr Suess noem. Hierdie boek se boodskap is soortgelyk aan dié van The Alchemist, en inspireer en motiveer my al baie jare lank deur al die getye van my lewe heen.

Wie is jou gunstelingouteur(s)? Hoe só?

Ek moet erken dat dit vir my bykans onmoontlik is om slegs een uit te sonder. As ek wel ŉ lys van my gunstelingouteurs moes saamstel, sou die naam Toni Morrison egter ongetwyfeld daarop verskyn. Ek het haar werk ontdek toe ek op universiteit was, en ek het gou besef waarom haar kragtige skryfwerk en onwrikbare verkenning van ras en identiteit vir haar ŉ plek tussen die letterkundige reuse verseker het.

Verder weier ek om die name van dr Suess en Roald Dahl uit die lys weg te laat! Hierdie twee skrywers het my wese en oortuigings help vorm sedert ek baie jonk was en my geïnspireer om dwarsdeur my lewe aan te hou lees. Hulle stories en karakters is vir soveel mense dwarsoor die wêreld baie spesiaal – hulle maak dit vir hulle lesers moontlik om die lewe te aanskou deur ŉ lens van woorde, kleure, dinge en plekke wat die grense van ons verbeelding verbysteek.

Wat lees jy op die oomblik?

Ek lees tans The Midnight Library deur Matt Haig, wat in 2020 verskyn het. Hierdie boek het my aangegryp deur sy verbeeldingryke uitgangspunt en boeiende verhaal, en ek was simmer gou verdiep in die wel en weë van die hoofkarakter, Nora Seed. Haig se treffende verkenning van berou en tweede kanse veroorsaak dat ek met afwagting uitsien na die onthullings en lesse wat ek weet ek in elke hoofstuk te wagte kan wees.

Verkies jy dit om ‘regte’ gedrukte boeke te lees, of lees jy eerder boeke op ŉ Kindle of ŉ ander elektroniese platform? Wat is die rede vir jou voorkeur?

Ek verkies fisiese boeke bó e-boeke omdat ek net so baie daarvan hou om om ŉ boek in my hande vas te hou. Ek is veral lief vir hardebandboeke omdat hulle so lank hou en omdat hulle ŉ tikkie sjarme en glans aan my leeservaring verleen. Ook is dit my droom om eendag ŉ groot biblioteek te hê, met rakke tjokkenblok vol boeke van die vloer af tot teen die plafon.

Watter boek het jy al meer as een keer gelees? Vertel ons hoekom?

Ek herlees The Great Gatsby graag keer op keer, danksy F. Scott Fitzgerald se meesterlike vertelkuns. In hierdie boek verplaas hy die leser reguit na die Jazz-eeu, en deur sy komplekse karakters en verkenning van verskillende maatskaplike temas skep hy ŉ verhaal wat my sodanig boei dat ek dit graag telkens weer beleef.

Wie is jou gunsteling- literêre karakter?

Alhoewel Santiago, die jong skaapwagter in The Alchemist, baie ná aan my hart is, is die BFG (the Big Friendly Giant, oftewel die Groot Vriendelike Reus), geskep deur die vindingryke Roald Dahl, my heel gunsteling. Die BFG se onvergeetlike teenwoordigheid vloei voort uit ŉ spesiale kombinasie van vriendelikheid, dapperheid en kinderlike verwondering, wat vir my blywende standaarde in verskeie aspekte van my lewe daargestel het. Sy sagte geaardheid en verbintenis daartoe om die regte ding te doen, het die vermoë om lesers van alle ouderdomme te inspireer, en almal kan gerus sy storie lees – of selfs na die fliek kyk.

Het jy miskien ŉ lewensles uit ŉ boek of by ŉ karakter in ŉ boek geleer wat jy met ons wil deel, as jy dit nog nie in een van jou ander antwoorde genoem het nie?

Ek wil graag weer verwys na die twee boeke, The Alchemist en Oh, The Places You Will Go, wat ek in my eerste antwoord genoem het, deur ŉ sin uit elk van hulle aan te haal. Die vertalings is my eie:

And when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

“En wanneer jy iets wil hê, span die ganse heelal saam om jou te help om dit te bereik.”

– Coelho in The Alchemist

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.”

“Jy het ŉ brein in jou kop. Jy het voete in jou skoene. Jy kan enige rigting inslaan wat jy wil.”

– Dr Seuss in Oh, The Places You Will Go

4 August 2023Tags: Dr Suess, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Matt Haig, Oh, Paulo Coelho, Roald Dahl, The Alchemist, The BFG, The Great Gatsby, The Midnight Library, The Places You Will

Book chat with Christo dK

Get to know us through the books we read!

This month we chat to Christo de Kock. He is currently doing his internship at the Language Centre and has recently completed his honours in Translation. “Language is something very close to my heart and that’s why it’s such a joy doing my internship at the Language Centre, where I can work with language every day.”

What is the title of your favourite book, or a book that had a great impact on you, or a book that is memorable for some reason?
The Wordsmith (also published as The List) by the Irish author, Patricia Forde.

Why did this book make such an impression on you?
I have a great love for language, and without my language I’m unable to be me. The Wordsmith reflects my love and need for language very well, and showcases the absolute beauty of language. The book interrogates the idea of language being imperative for human survival. Without language our tongues are cut off, figuratively speaking. But language has more purposes than mere survival. Having a broad and colourful vocabulary allows us to live, think, reason and create, and not survive only.

In addition to the content that interests me, the author’s way with language also resonates with me. It flows like a melody and the author does not only tell a story, but also manages to paint with words – it’s an illustration of what we can achieve with language and what potential words have.

Who is (are) your favourite author(s)? Also tell us why?
Patricia Forde – she wrote The Wordsmith.

Roald Dahl – Roald Dahl’s stories are so colourful and timeless, and can be read by anyone – no matter how young or old you are. Just like Forde, he manages to play with language and illustrates its beauty.

What are you reading at the moment?
I’m currently reading Heidi by Johanna Spyri. I like reading children’s stories because that’s what’s keeping the young innocent child inside of me alive. And I feel like dusting off my German.

Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?
I have a strong preference for printed books. I like things that are tangible. For me reading is also a sensory experience – I want to be able to see the book, to feel it. I want to be able to even smell the paper.

What book have you re-read? Also tell us why?
The Wordsmith. I read it more than once because I wanted to embark on another language adventure. But I also read the book in two different languages. As a young translator, I wanted to see what translation challenges could be identified in the book and how the Dutch translator went about with it – because I just love the Dutch language and I found it interesting and informative to read the book in Dutch, but also because I would love to be able to translate the book into Afrikaans one day.

Who is your favourite literary character?
Roald Dahl’s Matilda. She is intelligent and, despite being small and unimportant to others, she doesn’t allow people to walk over her. She’s mature and fiercely supports justice, and she makes sure that others are treated fairly.

Have you perhaps learnt a life lesson from a book or character that you would like to share with us?

Don’t underestimate the value of your language.”

What book/books would you recommend to your students, friends or anyone else?
Heidi – Johanna Spyri (if you feel like reading some German)
The Book Thief – Markus Zusak
Brolloks en Bittergal – CJ Langenhoven
George’s Marvellous Medicine – Roald Dahl
Matilda – Roald Dahl
Die Bergengel – Carina Stander

5 July 2023Tags: language, Patricia Forde, The List, The Wordsmith

Boekgeselsie met Christo dK

Leer ons ken deur die boeke wat ons lees!

Vandeesmaand gesels ons met Christo de Kock. Hy is tans besig met ’n internskap by die Taalsentrum en het onlangs sy honneurs in Vertaalkunde voltooi. “Taal lê my baie na aan die hart en dis waarom dit vir my ŉ groot voorreg is om ŉ intern by die Taalsentrum te wees en elke dag met taal te kan werk.”

Wat is die titel van jou gunstelingboek, of ŉ boek wat ŉ diep indruk op jou gemaak het, of ŉ boek wat jy om die een of ander rede as onvergeetlik ervaar het?
The Wordsmith (ook in Engels gepubliseer met die titel The List), deur die Ierse skrywer, Patricia Forde.

Hoekom het hierdie boek jou só beïndruk?
Ek is baie lief vir taal, en sonder my taal kan ek nie ek wees nie. The Wordsmith is ŉ goeie weerspieëling van my liefde vir en behoefte aan taal en die absolute skoonheid daarvan. Die boek handel oor die idee dat mense nie sonder taal kan lewe nie. Sonder taal is ons tonge afgesny, by wyse van spreke. Maar taal is nie net daar ter wille van oorlewing nie. Om ŉ ryk, uitgebreide en kleurvolle woordeskat te hê, maak dat ons kan leef, dink, redeneer en skep, en nie net oorleef nie.

Ek kan ook byvoeg dat dit nie net die inhoud van die boek is wat my interesseer nie, maar dat ek ook aanklank vind by die outeur se taalgebruik. Dit vloei soos ŉ melodie en die outeur vertel nie net ŉ storie nie, maar sy kry dit ook reg om werklik te skilder met woorde – ŉ illustrasie van wat ons met taal kan verrig en watter potensiaal woorde het.

Wie is jou gunstelingouteur(s)? Hoe só?
Patricia Forde – sy het The Wordsmith geskryf.

Roald Dahl – Roald Dahl se stories is so kleurvol en tydloos, en kan deur enigeen gelees word – maak nie saak hoe jonk of oud nie. Net soos Forde kry hy dit reg om te speel met taal en die skoonheid daarvan te illustreer.

Wat lees jy op die oomblik?
Ek lees op die oomblik Heidi deur Johanna Spyri. Ek hou daarvan om kinderstories te lees, want dis wat die jong onskuldige kind binne my lewendig hou. En ek is lus om my Duits weer bietjie op te skerp.

Verkies jy dit om ‘regte’ gedrukte boeke te lees, of lees jy eerder boeke op ŉ Kindle of ŉ ander elektroniese platform? Wat is die rede vir jou voorkeur?
Ek het ŉ sterk voorkeur vir gedrukte boeke. Ek hou van goed wat tasbaar is. Om te lees is ook vir my ŉ sensoriese ervaring – ek wil die boek kan sien, kan voel. Ek wil selfs die papier kan ruik.

Watter boek het jy al meer as een keer gelees? Vertel ons hoekom?
The Wordsmith. Ek het dit meer as een keer gelees omdat ek weer op ŉ taalavontuur wou gaan. Maar ek het die boek ook in twee verskillende tale gelees. As jong vertaler wou ek graag sien watter vertaaluitdagings in die boek is en hoe die Nederlandse vertaler daarmee te werk gegaan het – eerstens omdat ek ŉ groot liefde vir Nederlands het en dit vir my interessant en leersaam was om die boek in Nederlands te lees, maar ook omdat ek graag eendag die boek in Afrikaans wil vertaal.

Wie is jou gunsteling- literêre karakter?
Roald Dahl se Matilda. Sy is intelligent en, ten spyte daarvan dat sy klein en vir ander onbelangrik is, laat sy nie toe dat ander oor haar loop nie. Sy is volwasse en ŉ groot voorstaander vir geregtigheid, en maak seker dat ander regverdig behandel word.

Het jy dalk ŉ lewensles uit ŉ boek of by ŉ karakter uit ŉ boek geleer wat jy met ons wil deel?

Moenie die waarde van jou taal onderskat nie.”

Watter boek of boeke kan jy by jou vriende, studente en enige iemand anders aanbeveel?
Heidi – Johanna Spyri (as jy lus is om ŉ bietjie Duits te lees)
The Book Thief – Markus Zusak
Brolloks en Bittergal – CJ Langenhoven
George’s Marvellous Medicine – Roald Dahl
Matilda – Roald Dahl
Die Bergengel – Carina Stander

5 July 2023Tags: Patricia Forde, taal, The List, The Wordsmith

Boekgeselsie met Susan L

Leer ons ken deur die boeke wat ons lees!

Vandeesmaand gesels ons met Susan Lotz. Sy is ŉ taalpraktisyn en inhoudskoördineerder by die Taalsentrum. “Onder andere koördineer ek inhoud en boodskapoordrag by die Taalsentrum om ŉ bewustheid van die Sentrum se bedrywighede aan te wakker en om meertaligheid aan die Universiteit te bevorder,” verduidelik sy.

Wat is die titel van jou gunstelingboek, of ŉ boek wat ŉ diep indruk op jou gemaak het, of ŉ boek wat jy om die een of ander rede as onvergeetlik ervaar het?
Daar is baie sulke boeke omdat ek groot genot put uit lees, maar die een wat ek vandag met julle wil deel, is The Cello Suites deur Eric Sieblin.

Hoekom het hierdie boek jou só beïndruk?
Van alle musiek luister ek die heel graagste na tjellomusiek en Johann Sebastian Bach is een van my gunstelingkomponiste. Hierdie boek is enersyds ŉ ode aan die tjello en andersyds ŉ mymering oor Bach en die omstandighede waaronder sy tjellosuites (waarvan ek vreeslik hou) neergeskryf is; dit was dus vir my ŉ louter vreugde om die boek te lees! Ook het dit die Katalaanse tjellis, Pablo Casals, aan my bekendgestel, wat op sigself ŉ wonderlike ontdekking was omdat dit my nog uitsonderlike musiek gegee het waarin ek my kan verlustig. Die boek is glad nie tegnies nie, dis goed geskryf en dis boeiend – die outeur weef verskeie storielyne saam en dus is dit moeilik om dit neer te sit! Dis ŉ ware fees van ŉ musikale reis wat op ’n diep vlak met my geresoneer het.

Wie is jou gunstelingouteur(s)? Hoe só?
Ek dink dit hang af van op watter plek ek my bevind – ek het boeke deur skrywers soos Ingrid Winterbach, Lien Botha, Deon Meyer, Stieg Larsson, Laurie R King, Margaret Atwood, Jeanette Winterson, Neil Gaiman en Terry Pratchett al baie geniet. Ek het die Game of Thrones-boeke deur George RR Martin verslind, en verkies die boeke bó die verfilmde reeks. Twee Ierse outeurs na wie ek telkens terugkeer, is Niall Williams en Maggie O’Farrel.

Wat lees jy op die oomblik?
Where the Crawdads Sing, deur Delia Owens, en Skepsel deur Willem Anker (ŉ herlees omdat ek die Afrikaans waarin hierdie boek geskryf is, so geniet).

Verkies jy dit om ‘regte’ gedrukte boeke te lees, of lees jy eerder boeke op ŉ Kindle of ŉ ander elektroniese platform? Wat is die rede vir jou voorkeur?
Gedrukte boeke wen elke keer. Ek bestee soveel tyd daaraan om as deel van my werk en my lewe woorde op rekenaarskerms te lees dat dit vir my ŉ groot lekkerte is om woorde op papier te lees. Maar ek is aanpasbaar – as ek op my tablet toegang tot ŉ boek het, sal die tablet aan my sy bly totdat ek die boek klaar gelees het. Ek moet egter erken dat ek nogal hou van die idee dat minder bome afgekap word. Om dié rede koop eerder tweedehandse boeke, indien moontlik, of ek leen ŉ boek by iemand.

Watter boek het jy al meer as een keer gelees? Vertel ons hoekom?
The Cello Suites, om dit weer van voor af te geniet en omdat dit onmoontlik is om tydens die eerste lees al die inligting in te neem of te onthou; en Minoes, omdat dit so ŉ prettige boek is! Ook af en toe ŉ Harry Potter-boek (JK Rowling), om my geheue te verfris oor wie waar inpas, om terug te dink aan waar ek was toe ek hulle die eerste keer gelees het, en om met my niggies oor die stories en karakters te gesels. Four Letters of Love deur Niall Williams net omdat dit so dromerig is en dit voel asof ŉ mens saam met die karakters op die Ierse platteland is terwyl jy die storie lees. Ek soek boeke wat iets spesiaals vir my gedoen het, weer op.

Wie is jou gunsteling- literêre karakter?
Minoes (in Minoes deur Annie MG Schmidt, die Afrikaanse vertaling van die oorspronklike Nederlands). Minoes is ŉ kat en ŉ meisie – dikwels gelyktydig!

Het jy dalk ŉ lewensles by ŉ boek of ŉ karakter uit ŉ boek geleer wat jy met ons wil deel, as jy dit nog nie in een van jou ander antwoorde genoem het nie?
ŉ Karakter soos Salander in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo inspireer my en daag my uit om dapper te wees en te hanteer wat ook al hanteer moet word, en herinner my daaraan dat dit heeltemal in orde is om eksentriek te wees.

Dit hang net af of ŉ mens ontvanklik daarvoor is – of jy dié waarhede kan absorbeer of werklik hóór.”

Watter boek of boeke kan jy by jou vriende, studente en enige iemand anders aanbeveel?

Ja, hier is ŉ paar musiekstories:
The Cello Suites deur Eric Sieblin
A Genius in the Family deur Hilary en Piers du Pré
An Equal Music deur Vikram Seth (daar is selfs ŉ amptelike kompilasie op CD van al die stukke wat in die boek genoem word en dis waarskynlik ook op musiekstromingsdienste beskikbaar)
As It is in Heaven deur Niall Williams (met baie Vivaldi)
The Concert Pianist deur Conrad Williams

En nog ŉ paar aanbevelings:
The Little Prince deur Antoine de Saint Exupéry
Four Letters of Love deur Niall Williams
My Dream of You deur Nuala O’Faolain
After You’d Gone deur Maggie O’Farrel
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo-trilogie deur Stieg Larsson
The Game of Thrones-boeke deur George RR Martin
The MadAddam-trilogie deur Margaret Atwood
Folly deur Laury R King
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close deur Jonathan Safran Foer
Lighthousekeeping deur Jeanette Winterson
Forests of the Heart deur Charles de Lindt
Good Omens deur Terry Pratchett en Neil Gaiman
Die Witches-trilogie deur Terry Pratchett (en daarna sal jy ŉ slaaf wees!)

En iets in Afrikaans:
Skepsel deur Willem Anker
Die Aanspraak van Lewende Wesens deur Ingrid Winterbach
Wonderboom deur Lien Botha
Verlorenkop deur Celesté Fritze

1 June 2023Tags: Bach, Eric Sieblin, Ingrid Winterbach, Minoes, musiekstories, Neil Gaiman, Skepsel, Stieg Larsson, Terry Pratchett, The girl with the dragon tattoo, tjello, Willem Anker

Book chat with Susan L

Get to know us through the books we read!

This month we chat to Susan Lotz. She is a language practitioner and content coordinator at the Language Centre. “Among other things, I coordinate content and messaging at the Language Centre to create awareness of the Centre’s activities and to promote multilingualism at the University,” she explains.

What is die title of your favourite book, or a book that is memorable for some or other reason?
There are many, since I tremendously enjoy reading, but the one I would like to share today is The Cello Suites by Eric Sieblin.

Why did this book make such an impression on you?
I love cello music and Johann Sebastian Bach is one of my favourite composers. This book is both an ode to the cello and a musing about Bach and the circumstances during which the cello suites (which I absolutely adore) were committed to paper, so it gave me exceptional joy to read it. It also introduced me to Catalan cellist Pablo Casals, which was a wonderful discovery in itself, since it gave me some more exceptional music to explore. The book is not technical at all, and it is well written and gripping – the author weaves several storylines together, so it’s really hard to put down! It’s a veritable feast of a musical journey that resonated deeply with me.

Who is (are) your favourite author(s)? Also tell us why?
I think it depends on where I’m at – I’ve really enjoyed books by authors like Ingrid Winterbach, Lien Botha, Deon Meyer, Stieg Larsson, Laurie R King, Margaret Atwood, Jeanette Winterson, Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. I also devoured the Game of Thrones books by George RR Martin, which I prefer to the filmed series Two Irish authors I return to time and again are Niall Williams and Maggie O’Farrel.

What are you reading at the moment?
Where the Crawdads Sing, by Delia Owens, and Skepsel by Willem Anker (a re-read, because I just so love the Afrikaans writing in this book).

Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?
Physical books win every time. I spend so much time reading words on a screen as part of my job and life that reading words on paper is a real treat for me. But I’m flexible – if I have access to a book on my tablet, the tablet becomes my companion for the duration of the book. The idea of killing fewer trees does appeal to me, I must confess. I’d rather buy pre-read books for that reason, if possible, or borrow a book.

What book have you re-read? Also tell us why?
The Cello Suites, to enjoy it all over again, and one cannot possibly retain or absorb all the information the first time round; and Minoes, because it’s such a fun book! Also, now and again a Harry Potter book (JK Rowling), to remember who fits in where, to reminisce about where I was the first time when I read them, and to have conversations about the story and characters with my nieces. Four Letters of Love by Niall Williams just because it’s so dreamy and it feels as if one is right there in the Irish landscape with the characters when you read the story. I revisit books that did something special for me!

Who is your favourite literary character?
Minoes (in Minoes by Annie MG Schmidt, the Afrikaans translation of the original Dutch). Minoes is a cat and a girl – often both at the same time!

Have you perhaps learnt a life lesson from a book or character that you would like to share with us (if this hasn’t come up in one of your answers already)?
A character like Salander in The girl with the Dragon Tattoo inspires and challenges me to be brave and deal with whatever needs to be dealt with, and reminds me that it’s really fine also to be eccentric.

I think most stories contain life truths. It depends on whether you are open to absorb or hear them.”

What book/books would you recommend to your students, friends or anyone else?

Yes, here are a few music stories:
The Cello Suites by Eric Sieblin
A Genius in the Family by Hilary and Piers du Pré
An Equal Music by Vikram Seth (there’s even an official compilation of all the pieces mentioned in the book on CD, probably available on music streaming services as well)
As It is in Heaven by Niall Williams (with lots of Vivaldi)
The Concert Pianist by Conrad Williams

And a few other recommendations:
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupéry
Four Letters of Love by Niall Williams
My Dream of You by Nuala O’Faolain
After You’d Gone by Maggie O’Farrel
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo trilogy by Stieg Larsson
The Game of Thrones books by George RR Martin
The MadAddam trilogy by Margaret Atwood
Folly by Laury R King
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer
Lighthousekeeping by Jeanette Winterson
Forests of the Heart by Charles de Lindt
Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman
The Witches trilogy by Terry Pratchett (and then you’ll be hooked)

And something in Afrikaans:
Skepsel by Willem Anker
Die Aanspraak van Lewende Wesens by Ingrid Winterbach
Wonderboom by Lien Botha
Verlorenkop by Celesté Fritze

1 June 2023Tags: Bach, cello, Eric Sieblin, Ingrid Winterbach, Minoes, music stories, Neil Gaiman, Skepsel, Stieg Larsson, Terry Pratchett, The girl with the dragon tattoo, Willem Anker

Book chat with Juanli T

Get to know us through the books we read!

This month we chat to Juanli Theron, head of the Interpreting Service of the Language Centre. The Interpreting Service delivers real-time educational interpreting in class, or online, if the class or interpreting is conducted via MS Teams. Interpreting can be in Afrikaans, English or isiXhosa, depending on the pedagogical need. In addition, they offer conference interpreting too.

What is die title of your favourite book, or a book that is memorable for some or other reason?
I’m sure that this is something everyone says, but it’s simply too difficult to choose one favourite book! The one book that I do read over and over, however, and which I enjoyed once again at the beach during the recent holidays, is the sun and her flowers by Rupi Kaur.

Why did this book make such an impression on you?

I’ve read this collection of poems all the way through a few times now, going on the journey with Rupi through the themes of wilting, falling, rooting, rising and blooming – her vivid metaphors for life and love. Every time I reach the other side, I feel lighter. It’s good for my soul!

I enjoy the no-nonsense style of her poetry – short and sweet, with colourful metaphors, and she always gets directly to the point.”

Who is (are) your favourite author(s)? Also tell us why?
I have a few. Besides poetry, my favourite genre is fantasy. I enjoy Terry Pratchett, Neil Gaiman, Erin Morgenstern, Terry Brooks and others who are able to create worlds and spin tales that transport me out of the mundanity of the everyday.

What are you reading at the moment?
I’m between books at the moment, which is a very boring place to be … but I’m on the lookout for the next great one …

Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?
I like both for different reasons: The feel of a book between my fingers when I have time to relax on holiday AND the convenience of having my books with me anytime, anywhere on my Kindle. I’d rather not choose!

Who is your favourite literary character?
Vivian Morris in Elizabeth Gilbert’s City of Girls.

What book/books would you recommend to your students, friends or anyone else?
I will always recommend fantasy books, especially to creative people or type A personalities who can use the break and escapism fantasy offers. If they can laugh and relax with the characters along the way, that’s a win to me.

3 March 2023Tags: City of Girls, Elizabeth Gilbert, Erin Morgenstern, fantasy, Neil Gaiman, poetry, Rupi Kaur, Terry Brooks, Terry Pratchett, the sun and her flowers

Boekgeselsie met Juanli T

Leer ons ken deur die boeke wat ons lees! Vandeesmaand gesels ons met Juanli Theron, hoof van die Taalsentrum se Tolkdiens. Die Tolkdiens verskaf intydse opvoedkundige tolking tydens lesings, of aanlyn, as die lesing of tolking via MS Teams geskied. Tolking kan in Afrikaans, Engels of isiXhosa gedoen word, afhangend van die pedagogiese behoefte. Verder bied hulle ook konferensietolking aan.

Wat is die titel van jou gunstelingboek, of ŉ boek wat jy om die een of ander rede as onvergeetlik ervaar het?

Ek is seker ons sê dit almal, maar dis hopeloos te moeilik om een te kies! Die een boek wat ek wel gereeld wéér lees, en hierdie vakansie veral weer op die strand geniet het, is the sun and her flowers deur Rupi Kaur.

Hoekom het hierdie boek jou só beïndruk?

Ek het hierdie digbundel nou al ŉ paar keer van voor tot agter gelees en saam met Rupi op reis gegaan deur die temas van wilting, falling, rooting, rising en blooming – haar sprankelende metafore vir die lewe en die liefde. Ek voel telkens ligter wanneer ek anderkant uitkom. Dit doen my siel goed!

Ek geniet Rupi Kaur se digstyl – kort en bondig met kleurvolle metafore, en altyd direk op die punt af.”

Wie is jou gunstelingouteurs? Hoe só?
Ek het ŉ hele paar. Afgesien van die digkuns, is fantasie my gunsteling-genre. Ek geniet die werk van Terry Pratchett, Neil Gaiman, Erin Morgenstern, Terry Brooks en ander wat wêrelde kan skep en verbeeldingryke verhale kan vertel wat my wegvoer uit die doodgewoonheid van die alledaagse.

Wat lees jy op die oomblik?
Ek is tans tussen boeke, wat ŉ baie vervelige plek is om te wees, maar ek is op soek na iets wat verfrissend nuut en boeiend is …

Verkies jy dit om ‘regte’ gedrukte boeke te lees, of lees jy eerder boeke op ŉ Kindle of ŉ ander elektroniese platform? Wat is die rede vir jou voorkeur?
Ek hou om verskillende redes van albei: Die gevoel van ŉ boek in my hande wanneer ek tydens ŉ vakansie tyd het om te ontspan EN die gerief daarvan om my boeke te alle tye en op alle plekke op my Kindle by my te hê. Ek sal maar eerder nie kies nie!

Wie is jou gunsteling- literêre karakter?
Vivian Morris in Elizabeth Gilbert se City of Girls.

Watter boek of boeke kan jy by jou vriende, studente en enige iemand anders aanbeveel?
Ek sal fantasieboeke altyd aanbeveel, veral aan kreatiewe mense of mense met A-tipe persoonlikhede wat kan doen met die wegbreek en ontvlugting wat fantasie bied. As hulle saam met die karakters kan lag en ontspan, des te beter.

3 March 2023Tags: City of Girls, digkuns, Elizabeth Gilbert, Erin Morgenstern, fantasieverhale, Neil Gaiman, Rupi Kaur, Terry Brooks, Terry Pratchett, the sun and her flowers

Book chat with Vicki F

Get to know us through the books we read! Get to know us through the books we read! This month we chat to Vicki Fourie, an interpreter and the coordinator of the Language Centre’s portfolio for South African Sign Language interpreting. She is also a facilitator for academic literacy modules. Vicki hails from the Eastern Cape, and says: “My heart always yearns for the beauty of nature, sunrises and sunsets, mountains and freedom.”

What is die title of your favourite book, or a book that had a great impact on you, or a book that is memorable for some or other reason?
It’s impossible to answer this question, but I’ll stay with Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell.

Why did this book make such an impression on you?
I’m crazy about American literature: Mark Twain, Harper Lee, Louisa May Alcott and even Louis L’Amour (now you really know everything about me!), but I found Margaret Mitchell’s epic story to be unforgettable. The combination of romance, history and adventure is everything a good story requires – and good stories are firstly and foremostly the reason why I read!

Who is (are) your favourite author(s)? Also tell us why?
At the moment it is Chimamda Ngozi Adichie. Her feminism and honest stories about the marginalised members of society are so authentic that they inevitably tug at one’s heartstrings and resonate with one.

What are you reading at the moment?
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens (again), and When helping hurts by Steve Corbertt en Brian Fickert (for the first time). I’m also listening to John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress as an audio book. I hope it counts!

Do you have a preference: reading physical books with paper pages, or on a Kindle or other electronic platform? Why do you say so?
I only recently discovered the wonder of a Kindle! How lovely to be able to read while lying flat on one’s back, without having to hold a bulky book, and to have an unlimited number of books at your fingertips (I usually read more than one book at a time). Nonetheless, my bookcase and the books on its shelves are undoubtedly my most treasured possessions.

What book have you re-read? Also tell us why?
Most books should be read more than once, but I think the books I have re-read the most times are all the books in the Asterix series – I probably know them by heart! We had the whole series in our home when I was growing up, and that is where I discovered my love for reading.

Who is your favourite literary character?
Asterix! No, not really. It would have to be Scout Finch in To kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee:

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Atticus told me to delete the adjectives and I’d have the facts.”

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But now that I think about it again, it should possibly be Atticus Finch …

Have you perhaps learnt a life lesson from a book or character that you would like to share with us, if this hasn’t come up in one of your answers already?
The book, A Thousand Gifts, by Ann Voskamp was not the first book that changed my outlook on life, but it is the most recent one to have done so. Ann Voskamp taught me that thanksgiving precedes miracles. When looking at life through a lens of gratitude, one is able to experience it in all its fullness and glory.

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Thanksgiving precedes the miracle.” – Ann Voskamp

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What book or books would you recommend to your friends, students or anyone else?
Many! Every book is just right for a specific individual at a specific time. The book Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George deals with this very topic in the shape of the owner of a “Book Apothecary” who prescribes books for spiritual, emotional and physical disorders. I think it is a brilliant idea to use books as medication.

This is my prescription (use as required):

A Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp – when it feels as if your own difficulties are consuming you.
When helping hurts by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert – when the hardships of others overwhelm you.
Come and eat by Bri McKoy – how to celebrate in the face of adversity.

2 December 2022Tags: Brian Fickert, Charles Dickens, Chimamda Ngozi Adichie, David Copperfield, Gone with the Wind, Harper Lee, Margaret Mitchell, Steve Corbertt, To kill a Mockingbird, When helping hurts