South African writer Jeffrey Rakabe has achieved a significant milestone with his debut memoir, "The Women Brought Books," securing a publishing deal with Jacana Media. This accomplishment came after Rakabe successfully pitched his work at the Jacana Literary Foundation (JLF)'s "From Pitch to Publication" initiative.
The third season of this program, held on March 25th at the JLF offices, brought together 13 promising writers who presented their manuscripts to a discerning panel of industry professionals. This panel, including renowned figures like Sewela Langeni, Jennifer Platt, and Jacana Media's publishing directors, was captivated by Rakabe's insightful memoir.
"The Women Brought Books" delves into the profound impact of traditional male circumcision on the young author's life, viewing it as a rite of passage. However, Rakabe's exploration goes beyond the ritual itself, uncovering potential links to the prevalent issue of gender-based violence in South Africa. Through reading and reflection, guided by two influential women, he unravels the complex connections between initiation rituals and this societal scourge, ultimately advocating for gender interdependence.
In addition to Rakabe's publishing deal, another writer, Michelle Kekana, has been awarded a three-month mentorship program with South African journalist and author Rehana Rossouw. Kekana's manuscript, "The Fragile Mental Health of Strong Women," will benefit from Rossouw's expertise, helping her refine her work and bring it closer to publication.
The "From Pitch to Publication" initiative serves as a powerful platform for emerging writers, offering them valuable opportunities to connect with industry experts and secure publishing deals. It showcases the vibrant literary talent within South Africa, ensuring that untold stories find their way to readers.
The third season of this program, held on March 25th at the JLF offices, brought together 13 promising writers who presented their manuscripts to a discerning panel of industry professionals. This panel, including renowned figures like Sewela Langeni, Jennifer Platt, and Jacana Media's publishing directors, was captivated by Rakabe's insightful memoir.
"The Women Brought Books" delves into the profound impact of traditional male circumcision on the young author's life, viewing it as a rite of passage. However, Rakabe's exploration goes beyond the ritual itself, uncovering potential links to the prevalent issue of gender-based violence in South Africa. Through reading and reflection, guided by two influential women, he unravels the complex connections between initiation rituals and this societal scourge, ultimately advocating for gender interdependence.
In addition to Rakabe's publishing deal, another writer, Michelle Kekana, has been awarded a three-month mentorship program with South African journalist and author Rehana Rossouw. Kekana's manuscript, "The Fragile Mental Health of Strong Women," will benefit from Rossouw's expertise, helping her refine her work and bring it closer to publication.
The "From Pitch to Publication" initiative serves as a powerful platform for emerging writers, offering them valuable opportunities to connect with industry experts and secure publishing deals. It showcases the vibrant literary talent within South Africa, ensuring that untold stories find their way to readers.
