Percy Fitzpatrick (1862–1931)

I really have no idea how to review this South African classic, first published in 1907. It is the story of a trekker and his dog, in the bushveld, but driving through the heart of it is the story of Jim Makokela, a Zulu warrior who now serves his white masters with a deep and understated wisdom and drinks whenever he has money. It is a deeply uncomfortable book on many levels to the modern reader - the treatment of the black 'boys', the casual violence, the harshness of life on the veld - show more and the ending is full of sorrows at many levels too. But it is an evocative portrayal of another world. show less

The South African gold rush of the 1880s caused a transformation of the country. Gold rushes have a tendency to do that with the influx of large numbers of people and a sudden increase in money for some of them. Percy Fitzpatrick was caught up in that but he didn't mine for gold. Instead he became a transport driver and made his money that way.

Transport was by ox-wagon. The roads from the coast to the mining area were rough and travel was slow. Often it was too hot to travel during the day show more so travel was at night and then the oxen were outspanned (unhitched) at dawn. In order to have fresh meat to eat the drivers would hunt during the day. Although I would far rather take a picture of an impala than shoot it I can understand the necessity these men faced. Fitzpatrick started out as a dismal failure at hunting but fortunately an old hand taught him the ropes. Then Fitzpatrick found Jock, a Staffordshire bull terrier pup, that was his constant companion and essential aide in hunting.

These stories show the tenacity and intensity with which Jock pursued game. For me, they also showed why Staffordshires (also known as pit bulls) are such a problem in modern urban settings. Jock was perfect for his time and place but Jock's progeny in today's world will get into trouble with those same instincts.

As an historical account this was very enjoyable. Railroads soon displaced the need for ox-wagons so it is a glimpse into a brief time period from one who lived it. I just wish the people who re-issued the book hadn't tinkered with it. The editor's note says "For better understanding, the language has been modernised, the measurements have been metricated and the glossary has been expanded. While the prejudicial racial references have been eliminated, the esoteric charm and innocent philosophical tone have been scrupulously left intact." I would have preferred to have read it as it was originally published. I think most readers would understand that it was a different time with different sensibilities. show less

Well written. Not politically correct in today's terms, but actually a sympathetic description of both the white and native people.

This was published in 1907 and reflects the prevailing opinions and word usage of the times. Having said that, Fitzpatrick's basic respect for humanity overrides the outmoded words that he uses. It vividly portrays another time. This strongly reminds me of A. B. Facey's "A Fortunate Life" - same era, same story of movement, journey(s) through rough country that has since changed enormously.

And then there is Jock. While the story is somewhat disjointed, mostly it is about Jock, his courage show more and his love. show less