What are the characteristics of South African best seller novels?

Sure. 'Long Walk to Freedom' by Nelson Mandela is a significant best - seller. It's not only a memoir but also a story that gives insights into the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Also, 'July's People' by Nadine Gordimer is quite famous. It presents a post - apocalyptic scenario in South Africa where the social order is turned upside down. Then there's 'Moxyland' by Lauren Beukes, which is a modern and engaging take on South African society, exploring themes like technology, power, and identity.

Well, among the 10 best South African novels, 'Tsotsi' by Athol Fugard is a great one. It tells the story of a young gangster in Johannesburg. 'The Conservationist' by Nadine Gordimer is also among them. It's a complex novel that looks at issues of power, race, and land ownership in South Africa. And then there's 'July's People' by Nadine Gordimer as well, which is set during a time of political unrest.

One of the best South African novels is 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. It vividly portrays the Igbo society in Nigeria, which also has some similarities and connections to the broader African context including South Africa. Another great one is 'Disgrace' by J.M. Coetzee. It delves into complex issues like race, power, and sexual politics in South Africa. And 'Cry, the Beloved Country' by Alan Paton is also highly regarded. It shows the beauty and the brokenness of South Africa, exploring themes of apartheid, love for the land, and the struggle for justice.

Many new South African novels are characterized by their rich use of local languages and dialects, which gives a unique flavor to the stories. They also tend to explore the historical traumas of the apartheid era and how they still influence the present. For example, some novels might focus on the experiences of individuals who were oppressed during that time and how they are now trying to find their place in the new South Africa. Moreover, these novels often have a diverse range of characters representing different races, classes, and genders, which helps in presenting a more comprehensive picture of the society.

Often, South African romantic novels incorporate the rich cultural diversity of the country. They might feature characters from different ethnic groups and show how love can bridge cultural gaps.

Many famous South African novels often deal with themes of race and racism. For example, in 'Cry, the Beloved Country', the stark contrast between the living conditions of different races is a central aspect. This is a reflection of the apartheid system that dominated South Africa for a long time.

South African fantasy novels often incorporate local myths and legends. For example, they might include stories about the ancient spirits that are believed to inhabit the land. This gives the novels a unique cultural identity.

South African detective novels typically feature a unique blend of mystery and cultural exploration. The mysteries are not just about 'who done it' but also about understanding the cultural and historical factors that might be involved. For instance, a case might be linked to an old tribal feud or a legacy of colonialism. The detectives in these novels often have to navigate through a web of cultural norms, beliefs, and historical baggage while trying to solve the crime. This makes South African detective novels not only entertaining but also educational in terms of learning about South African culture and society.

South African crime novels often feature the complex social issues of the country, such as racial inequality and poverty. These elements are intertwined with the crime plots.

South African love novels often incorporate the rich cultural diversity of the country. They might feature different ethnic groups and their unique traditions, which influence the relationships and the way love is expressed. For example, in some novels, the idea of family and community plays a big role in the love stories.