Biblionef South Africa is proud to announce the arrival of Together Apart: The Story About Living in Apartheid. Produced in partnership with Jacana Media and generously funded by the National Lotteries Commission, this extraordinary book explains what apartheid was and how it happened in South Africa; considering the long history before colonialism, followed by the brutal laws of racial oppression and segregation. With evocative illustrations and dynamic graphics, the book highlights the everyday nature of apartheid and how it impacted daily life, education, where we lived and worked, the friends we made, the sport we played and the music we listened to.

Written by the talented Dr Xolisa Guzula and Dr Athambile Masola, this project represents a milestone in preserving South African history. It is for everyone living in South Africa and beyond, including preteens and young adults, their families, and teachers.  

Through the character of Makhulu, readers can follow Priya, Xiluva, Aiden and Jessica as they ask her questions about apartheid. The voice of an elder is central to this story, as it is only through storytelling that we can answer some of the difficult questions. Many of the book’s questions come from real-life questions that the authors have encountered and had to explain to their children and students. A highlight of this initiative is translating the book into four additional South African indigenous languages: isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi and Afrikaans. This multilingual approach highlights Biblionef’s commitment to decolonising literature and promoting linguistic inclusivity. By ensuring that the story of apartheid is told in multiple languages, we hope to reach children in diverse communities across the country, making history relatable and enriching South Africa’s literary landscape.  

We are excited to begin distributing our 1100 copies to schools and children’s organisations nationwide, ensuring they reach the hands of young readers who can benefit most from them. This project not only educates the reader but also promotes reading for enjoyment, imagination, and cultural pride. 

This book has the potential to spark meaningful discussions among teachers, learners, and parents about South Africa’s history and its relevance today. It also supports the broader goals of nation-building, social cohesion, and fostering a love for reading in young people. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the National Lotteries Commission for their invaluable support and to Jacana Media for their dedication to producing high-quality, impactful books. Together, we empower South Africa’s children to learn from the past and imagine a brighter, more inclusive future. 

For more information, please contact us at info@biblionefsa.org.za.