CONVERSATIONS WITH A GENTLE SOUL

274pp., paperback, First SA Edition, Johannesburg, 2017

Originally published in New Zealand in 2016.

Journalist Sahm Venter met Ahmed Kathrada after his release, accompnied him on some of his travels, and worked on several projects with him over the years. In this book she records a series of discussions they had in 2015 and 2016.

"In this new phase of our struggle for democracy and freedom, the voices of giants like Ahmed 'Kathy' Kathrada sound ever more imperatively. This uplifting, charming and delightful book teaches us why we revere Mandela's circle and their commitment to principle, truth and public service. It's a read strongly recommended for this time." Judge Edwin Cameron

"'Conversations with a Gentle Soul' reminds me of the hours spent talking with Tata and Uncle Kathy; both of whom are individually strong personalities with extraordinary humility and a mischievous sense of humour. There are valuable lessons to be learnt from Uncle Kathy who shares his life experiences, many of which shaped the future of South Africa, in an unassuming, sincere and refreshing manner." Zindzi Mandela