101 Remarkable South African Women

The word ‘remarkable’ in the title of this reference book is almost too small a word. The women of 101 Remarkable South African Women are complex, complicated and anchored in conviction. No matter how controversial some might be to the modern reader, one quickly understands the contexts and limited choices that made them who they were (and are). I was truly ashamed by how few of the women I recognised, particularly the more historic figures who arguably helped forge the much easier paths we tread today as a result of their lives. But I also quickly reminded myself that this isn’t a personal failing; it’s a feature, not a bug of the patriarchal lens through which history is recorded and taught. This enlightening and affirming read is an absolute must-buy for those who love women and history.