The Marabi Dance

The Marabi Dance is a novel that follows aspiring singer Martha as she falls in love with the underground Marabi culture in 1930s South Africa. It was originally banned from publication and captures the social climate of South Africa before apartheid.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Marabi Dance is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the life of aspiring singer Martha, who falls deeply in love with the underground Marabi culture in 1930s South Africa. Born and raised in the slums of Johannesburg, Martha is captivated by the vibrant sounds of Marabi music, a fusion of African and European influences that emerged during the early 20th century. Despite her passion for singing and dancing, Martha's parents view the Marabi scene as a dangerous world full of gangs and violence.

As her crush on a handsome and talented Marabi musician deepens, Martha finds herself caught between the values of her past and the rapidly changing world around her. Her father has plans to marry her off to her cousin, but Martha longs for a future that allows her to pursue her dreams without betraying either herself or her parents.

Dikobe's novel, which was originally banned from publication, offers a poignant portrayal of the social climate of South Africa in the years leading up to apartheid. The characters are well-developed, and the reader can truly feel their struggles and emotions. The Marabi Dance is a rare and exceptional work of fiction that provides a deep and authentic understanding of South African history and culture.

In conclusion, The Marabi Dance is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, music, or the complexities of human relationships. It is a beautifully written novel that offers a unique perspective on a period of South African history that is often overlooked.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803289014