A Story Like the Wind (1972)

A Story Like the Wind by Laurens van der Post is a coming of age tale about a young boy, Francois, raised on a remote farm in South Africa. This story is centered around the death of his father and his coming to terms with his loss and having to mature rather quickly.

While his mother and father leave to consult doctors, Francois and his faithful companion, his dog Hin, spent their days together. We learn of his life and experience some of his adventures. From rescuing a bushman from a lion trap to consulting a witch doctor about his father, we are given insight into how this boy thinks and feels.

Set in the late 1930’s and based on his recollections, the author is able to paint a vivid picture about growing up in Africa. Francois’ relations with the native people on the farm allow us to witness the rich oral traditions of these people. I did, however, find some of the descriptions were long winded and could become rather mind numbing, and at times, I felt the author wandered from his plot. Overall, I enjoyed this book, beautifully written but patience is definitely required. ( )

This book is incredible. Francois, the main character, is complex and deeply likable, and van der Post's description of the Africa that he knew as a child is enchanting. The book seems magical.

I think the sequel, A Far Off Place, is even better, but you absolutely must read A Story Like the Wind first. ( )

PUBLISHER'S INFO:
"Van der Post’s incomparable knowledge of Africa illuminates this epic novel, set near the Kalahari Desert, about a boy on the verge of manhood, his experiences with the wonder and mystery of a still-primitive land, and his secret friendship with the Bushman whose life he saves. The narrative of A Story like the Wind continues in A Far-Off Place."

A young teenage boy lives on a homestead bordering the Kalahari desert. He becomes friends with a bushman. The homestead is attacked and the teenage boy learns to survive with the help of the bushman. ( )