In the maiden chapter, Zondi opens with a pedagogic overview befitting of an editor who goes out of his way to channel the direction of the “protracted process” (Pp. 6) of engaging issues of an “African archive” (Pp.7). Zondi’s Chapter 1 built upon the useful foundation and tone, already set by Ethiopian scholar Mammo Muchie, in the didactic foreword.

Scholarship on Black Consciousness in the so-called post-apartheid South Africa is not as prominent as its counterpart within the Congress tradition. The fundamental reason for this is the hegemony and pervasiveness of whiteness and its aversion to the Black Radical Tradition.

Set in East London, South Africa in the late 1990s, the protagonist Bokang Damane, typical of any teenager, is a dreamer, sketcher and a loner. Of course physical appearance can be deceiving; internally Bokang is dealing with heavy psychological and emotional issues.

From the ancient Egyptians times to Stellenbosch vineyards, for centuries alcohol has been a feature of human life and festivities. This inebriating concoction has also provided passage to other areas of the brain to provide temporary relief as an ‘escape’ from the pressures of society.

It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way is a relevant, insightful and timely debut novel prompting mankind to return to nature to make us whole again. As simple as it may sound, it is truly up to us to define how this world could be for future generations to come.

Breathless! This is how I felt after being spat out of the afternoon hustle and bustle of Johannesburg's pavements. Bridge Books on Commissioner Street was my destination, to attend Fred Khumalo’s book launch.

Mazibuko stunningly weaved Kasi symbolism that would have many readers identifying their family members, neighbours and nyaope boys asking for two rands.

Explicably Zwelethu was Mr Seroke’s nickname (p.64), inspired from his affiliation to the Pan African Congress (PAC) of Azania’s ‘rallying open palm salute’ Izwe lethu.