This is the very first Michener work that I have delved into.

If all of his books are as rich and captivating as this one, then it most assuredly won't be the last Michener I'll read.

Michener has skillfully interwoven the story of South Africa, spanning from ancient times all the way to the era of 1979 Apartheid, through the lives of diverse families - the Afrikaner Dutch, the English, the Black, and the Coloured. His storytelling prowess is truly masterful, leaving me at various moments aghast, enthralled, and overwhelmed - sometimes all at once - but always completely and thoroughly engrossed.

Certainly, I have gleaned a great deal of knowledge, especially regarding the roots of Apartheid, about which I was previously only minimally educated. I have numerous thoughts on this matter, although I will refrain from expounding politically at this juncture. Suffice it to say that Michener took his time to vividly illustrate the path that the Dutch settlers traversed to arrive at that point, because it definitely appears to be a deeply ingrained path or mindset that led South Africa to where it landed in the late 20th century.

(Okay, just to be entirely transparent, here's my opinion: Apartheid is/was truly atrocious. Don't come at me.)

If you have the time and inclination to devour this hefty 1154-page tome, I highly recommend that you do so. I employed a hybrid approach of listening and reading it. The audiobook, narrated by Larry McKeever, is truly excellent.

Honestly, this book is truly a letdown. There is just an overwhelming amount of content that makes it difficult to extract any real substance from it. I completed reading it just 5 minutes ago, and yet I can recall maybe only 25% of the plot. Throughout its hefty 1235 pages, there were merely about 3 moments that could be considered poignant. What's more, a significant number of the characters are absolutely unbearable. The story follows an incredibly formulaic pattern, and to my taste, it shows a bit too much sympathy towards people who are irredeemably awful. I deduct 1 point for its soullessness, 2 stars for what I perceive as racism, and 1 star for the time I wasted on it. I can only give it 1 star for meeting the bare minimum requirements.

A few years ago, I came across a superbly written crime-fiction titled "A Beautiful Place to Die" set in South Africa during the 1950s. I have a great penchant for historical fiction, and historical crime fiction even more so. I believe it delves deeper into laying bare the human condition and making a troubled era vividly come alive.

I knew I had to explore more about South Africa. Especially lately, I've been intrigued by the differential treatment of apartheid-era South Africa and some Muslim-majority countries that discriminate based on gender and sexuality. For instance, why hasn't Afghanistan, the most glaring example, been boycotted from cricket so far?

The book itself differs from my previous two reads by Michener - "Poland" and "The Source". It presents a largely continuous history of South Africa from the 15th century to the 1970s (pre-independence). Ironically, at times I wished for a time jump as it got a bit repetitive in the middle for about 100 pages. However, aside from that, it is well-researched and highly readable. It also showcases the empathy, prescience, and wisdom that seem to come so effortlessly to Michener. If you love historical fiction, don't be deterred by its length and give it a try!

I used to wonder about the basis of apartheid and racism. Was it a doctrine advocated by someone famous like Hitler? Why did good people believe in such ugly and disgusting things?

I was shocked to discover that the answer was religion. The "Afrikaners" (Dutch settlers) repeatedly invoked the Old Testament to justify their apartheid policy and the cruel treatment of all non-whites. The author has worked a kind of magic here. Since the Afrikaners were the protagonists and their hardships in settling the land were detailed, you realize they truly believed in this doctrine. Even those who might otherwise be considered excellent human beings. Doesn't this draw a parallel with today's world?

I think the dehumanization of the other is common to all religions. Indic religions oddly do it to certain sections within the group. Abrahamic religions do it to the "non-believers". Thankfully, except for one religion, the others have reformed considerably and are largely open to criticism.

And this is precisely why the appeasement of the one stubborn bully concerns me deeply. The reforms and secularism have been hard-won, and it would be a great pity if the process were reversed in a perverse one-upmanship of religions. As I say, passing through the intolerant medieval ages once was enough for humanity!

**"The Rich Tapestry of South African History in 'The Covenant' by James A. Michener"**

In 1979, American historian and novelist James A. Michener penned "The Covenant", a sprawling epic that uses fiction to chronicle South Africa's history from 13,000 B.C. to 1979. The story unfolds through a diverse cast of characters.

At its core are the descendants of Willem van Doorn. The novel aims to provide readers with a basic understanding of South Africa's nationhood, with a particular focus on the origins of Afrikanerdom, apartheid, and the experience of being part of a rapidly changing nation by the 20th century's end. Alongside the van Doorns are the Nxumalos, representing the black community, and the Saltwoods, representing the English community.

Over the span of 14,978 years, South Africa has witnessed numerous changes. It begins with the Khoisan hunter-gatherers like Gumsto and his clan. Gumsto, a widower in his forties, desires the beautiful Naoka, just seventeen. Gao, a gifted artist, paints the clan's experiences. Kharu, an elder woman, is Gumsto's second-in-command.

Thousands of years later, Nxumalo of Zimbabwe, a young nobleman, gains contact with the outside world through Arab and Portuguese traders. He migrates south with his wife, Hlenga. His descendant of the same name later joins the Zulu people and becomes servants to the van Doorns.

The van Doorn family has its own complex story. Hendrickje van Valkenborch de van Doorn, a successful businesswoman, and her husband, Titus, have two sons, Karel and Willem. Karel is keen on making a name for himself in the Dutch East India Company, while Willem, the patriarch of the South African van Doorn family, has a more inquisitive and sincere nature. Willem has a relationship with Ateh, an indentured servant, which causes controversy. He eventually marries Katje Danckaerts, one of the "King's Daughters".

The story continues with the descendants of these characters, each playing a role in South Africa's history. From the Trekboers like Hendrik van Doorn and his son, "Mal [Crazy]" Adriaan van Doorn, to the conflicts and changes brought about by British incursions and the Great Trek, "The Covenant" weaves a rich and detailed tapestry of South Africa's past.

As is typical of Michener, this is a very lengthy book.

It delves deep into the history of South Africa, painting a vivid and detailed picture of the country's past.

The story unfolds through the eyes of various characters, each with their own unique experiences and perspectives.

Despite its length, the book is a captivating read that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.

It is an amazing history that offers insights into the complex social, political, and cultural issues that have shaped South Africa.

It is well worth the time investment to read this book and gain a better understanding of this fascinating country.

Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in learning more about South Africa, this book is sure to satisfy.

So, pick up a copy and embark on a journey through the rich and tumultuous history of South Africa.

This is one of my all-time favorite books.

It is extremely long, yet it meticulously details the history of South Africa.

The depth and breadth of information presented within its pages are truly remarkable.

I was immediately drawn into the story and found it utterly fascinating.

Even to this day, I constantly think about the events and people described in the book.

It has left a lasting impression on me and has deepened my understanding and appreciation of South Africa's rich and complex history.

Each time I pick up the book, I discover something new and gain further insights into this captivating subject.

It is a literary masterpiece that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in history or South Africa.

I am truly grateful to have come across this book and look forward to many more readings in the future.

I know that some people might view Michener as a lightweight author. In fact, I don't seem to know anyone else who has a penchant for reading his works. However, I have found great pleasure in delving a little deeper into the intricate social histories of specific regions through his books.

Piecing together the history of the Xhosa, Zulu, and other native tribes in southern Africa, along with that of the Dutch and English colonizers, has been an extremely fascinating endeavor for me.

I find myself more inclined to read a book that weaves in human stories, even if they are fictitious, rather than simply picking up a non-fiction work on the history of South Africa.

It makes the learning experience more engaging and relatable. I wonder if there are any others out there who also enjoy Michener's writing and have had similar experiences?

Mildly interesting.

Worth reading once, which is rather rare for Michener. I've read Hawaii and The Source numerous times.

There is an excessive amount of racial content and not enough focus on gold and diamonds.

However, the presence of a Princess adds an element of intrigue.

It makes one wonder how her story will unfold within the context of the narrative.

Perhaps she will bring a new perspective or a different kind of drama to the plot.

Despite the drawbacks in terms of the balance between racial themes and other elements, the mention of the Princess gives a glimmer of hope for an engaging and unique storyline.

It will be interesting to see if Michener can effectively develop her character and integrate her into the overall fabric of the story in a meaningful way.

Overall, while not without its flaws, this aspect of the work holds some promise and makes it worth taking a closer look.

I promised myself when I considered writing a review of this gigantic tome.

Woah there buddy, isn't it a little redundant to be calling a tome gigantic? If it's a tome it is gigantic by its very definition, or are you saying that it's especially large, even for a tome?

Alright, so when I was considering writing a review of this tome, I made a promise to myself not to use the word epic.

Newsflash, genius, you are writing a review and you just used the word epic. Mission failed, promise to self broken (you suck).

Anyway, I did not want to use the word epic to describe this novel, but I realized that there isn't another word that would describe it adequately.

Oh look, I have a thesaurus. Check it out: Inflated, grandiose, gargantuan, monumental, towering, gigantic, Brobdingnagian...

Sooo, this is a big book and if you're not interested in South African history, it might not be something you want to read.

Durrr, hey I'm not interested in reading about South African history, I think I'll read this monstrous (thank you, thesaurus) Michener book that focuses entirely on South Africa. IS ANYONE THAT STUPID?

Yes, as a matter of fact...

But do you think that anyone reading your review is that stupid?

Of course not, they're obviously individuals of highly evolved taste and intelligence. I just thought that maybe they don't know what the book is about.

Do you honestly believe that someone interested in this book went to YOUR review first? Like, oh hey, I'm just going to read this random review by a dude I don't know rather than reading the BLURB THAT IS RIGHT BESIDE THE BLOODY BOOK.

You may have a point.

You're dern right I have a point, you soft-headed cheese eater.

Cheese eater?

You don't eat cheese?

I do, but it's a rather weak insult.

Whatever

Anyway, this book is a long read, but it's well worth the time invested. In my opinion, this is Michener's best.

Have you read every Michener book?

No.

Then how can you say that? What if his best book is "Mexico"?

It isn't.

Listen, you lumpy-headed simpleton, can you guarantee beyond all doubt that one of the many Michener books that you haven't read isn't his best?

No, but...

Then your opinion isn't worth much, is it?

Fine. I just thought this was a really good book and, having read a sizable selection of Michener's works, I have a hard time imagining a better one.

Oh, so we're to be held hostage, as review readers, by the limits of your poverty-stricken imagination?

Fine. This is an excellent book, that's all I'm saying.

I think what the reviewer is trying to say, for any readers who have made it this far, is that you should probably read another review if you want any actual meaningful analysis of this book.

Shut up.

So, it comes as no surprise that this is a big, epic, sweeping tome.

Just like in the grand Michener style, it commences right from the beginning.

In this particular instance, the beginning pertains to the early tribes inhabiting South Africa. From that starting point, we traverse through 14 extensive sections that depict vignettes of fascinating historical eras in South Africa. These sections take us on a journey from approximately 14000 BC to the late 1970’s.

The book is a novel and should not be regarded as true history. However, a great deal of complex history is illustrated through fictional scenarios. Moreover, a plethora of interesting questions are pondered.

For example, Europeans, specifically the Dutch, began arriving in the Cape Hope area in the 17th century. At that time, they did not view it as a place for colonization. Instead, they saw it as a location to resupply ships on their way to Asia for the spice trade. Consequently, the outpost was run as a strict business. As a result, the people sent there were micromanaged from a distant world, which led to people feeling chafed.

The Dutch were devoutly Calvinist, which gave rise to all sorts of friction.

The Dutch, who eventually came to settle, started to culturally drift from Holland, causing even more friction.

The English eventually showed up and took over, and they were bitterly hated by the Dutch.

Completely different cultures began to emerge, fracture, and attempt to escape one another.

Tribal warfare occurred. Slavery took place. The Boer war happened. Apartheid also came into being.

Since the book was first printed in 1980, it concludes with the country (and the region) in a messy state of affairs in the late 1970’s.

One piece of advice: if you打算投入时间阅读这本书，利用一些优秀的在线地图并在阅读时将它们放在手边。在这个故事中，每一个难以驾驭的小群体都在不断地移动，将这一切置于背景中会有所帮助。

A Harrowing Review of South African History

South African history is a complex and often harrowing tale. It serves as both an eye-opening and foundational resource for understanding the country as it is today. However, it is also chilling and disheartening in many respects. It stands as yet another example of humanity's confounding ability to stigmatize and ostracize one another.

The history of South Africa is marked by periods of colonialism, apartheid, and social unrest. The system of apartheid, in particular, was a dark chapter that institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. It led to the marginalization and oppression of the majority black population, denying them basic rights and opportunities.

This history has had a profound impact on South African society, shaping its political, economic, and social landscapes. It has left deep scars that continue to be felt today. Understanding this history is crucial for grappling with the challenges and inequalities that persist in the country.

Yet, the story of South African history is not one of unmitigated despair. There have also been moments of hope, resistance, and progress. The struggle against apartheid was a heroic one, led by individuals and groups who refused to accept the status quo. Their efforts ultimately led to the end of apartheid and the birth of a new, democratic South Africa.

Today, South Africa is a country in transition, still striving to overcome the legacy of its past. It faces many challenges, including poverty, inequality, and social division. But it also has a rich and diverse culture, a vibrant economy, and a growing sense of national pride. As the country continues to evolve, it is important to remember its history and to learn from the mistakes of the past. Only then can South Africa build a more just, equitable, and prosperous future for all its people.

Several years ago, I embarked on this book but abandoned it after approximately 400 pages. However, I made the decision to give it another go, and I'm glad I did, to a certain extent. You truly don't grasp the meaning of a "very long, detail-packed" book until you've delved into a James Michener novel. This particular one was among his longest, boasting 1,236 pages in paperback. The pages are incredibly dense, with minuscule print. In contrast, a typical novel by, for instance, John Grisham or Stephen King, has roughly half as many words on each page and totals only about 400-500 pages. So, essentially, once I completed this book, I felt it was twice as long as it actually seemed.

James Michener's typical modus operandi is to focus on a place, or rather the people inhabiting that particular place. This book was a prime example of a James Michener novel, spanning several thousand years and whisking us through the centuries at a rapid pace. By the time we reach page 800 and are reading about the people and places there, we've almost forgotten about the distant relatives on page 300 and their exploits that occurred several hundred years earlier. It must be noted that this, like most of Michener's work, is truly great reading, albeit a bit overwhelming. We feel a sense of accomplishment as readers when we reach, say, page 900, but then we inwardly groan when we realize there are still about 350 pages to go.

The setting of this novel is South Africa, with the time period ranging from prehistoric times to the present day (1980), when apartheid was wreaking havoc across the nation, and there were only faint glimmers of hope for change in the air. Yes, most of the stories within this novel aren't particularly happy ones, but this is par for the course with Michener. The title, "The Covenant," stems from the Dutch people known as Afrikaners and a "covenant" they made with God sometime in the 17th or 18th century. These people have a penchant for quoting the Bible at every opportunity but only cherry-pick the parts that they find advantageous to them. They frequently assert that they are "Old Testament" people and believe that the descendants of Ham (native Africans) have been condemned by God to live in perpetual servitude to their superior white brethren. However, God doesn't abide by covenants that are dictated to him, especially when the terms of said covenant go against his fundamental teachings on how one race should treat another, whom he loves equally. It is this conflict that essentially shapes the entire narrative of this book.

This book is replete with different families, races, and cultures, from the various indigenous tribes to the diverse invaders from France, Holland, and England. The tensions are at their peak among the different races, including "The Coloured," who are essentially the mixed offspring of whites and blacks. Not surprisingly, the book becomes the hardest to stomach during the last couple of hundred pages when apartheid was in full swing. One almost wishes that the book had been written a couple of decades later so we could read about the much-needed changes initiated by F.W. De Klerk and Nelson Mandela. Author James Michener sporadically weaves real figures into the pages, but these two are never mentioned.

Overall, Michener succeeds in telling a captivating story while also imparting a very intense history lesson to his readers. I felt the same way after finishing the majority of Michener's "Places" novels. In that regard, it is very rewarding. However, one wishes that he could have trimmed a couple of hundred pages from his finished work. To be honest, there were many instances within the last 150 pages or so where I simply skimmed the material. It was a bit too much. Even if you don't "like" these types of books, you can't help but admire the author's tenacity when it comes to research. I would imagine that writing a tome like this would require a lifetime of examination. It's quite impressive, considering that this volume was just one of many by this author. Still, though, it was one of his longest, and I was mostly relieved when I finally finished it, despite its overall rewards.