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We Are Not Such Things by Justine van der Leun (first published in 2016 by Spiegel & Grau)
The title of the book is a quote from one of the 4 men convicted of Amy's murder in response to the prosecution’s allegation that they were not politically motivated, but were like “sharks smelling blood”.
Justine, herself an American, spent 4 years researching and interviewing everyone involved for this first ever book written on the subject, becoming a frequent visitor to Gugulethu where it happened.
She not only uncovers as much information as she was able to on what actually happened on that fateful day but also delves into the possible motivations and background of the perpetrators, without judgement.
I found the book soon became less about Amy Biehl and more about South Africa, township life and the devastating consequences of the Apartheid system. I found her observations accurate, insightful and not at all exaggerated. For a privileged white South African, parts of this book are uncomfortable to read, which is exactly why the book should be read.
I can’t remember when last a book caused me to do as much soul-searching. I highly recommend it.
LISTEN: Audio clip of We Are Not Such Things
Purchase a copy of the book from Takealot.com.
