28 pages 56 minutes read

Dalene Matthee

Fiela's Child (Fiela se Kind)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Set in mid-nineteenth century South Africa, Fiela's Child by Dalene Matthee centers on Fiela, a hard-working South African woman who raises a white boy, Benjamin, found on her doorstep. Nine years later, census workers claim Benjamin resembles a missing child from Knysna and he is forced to live with his supposed biological family, causing him to grapple with identity, family loyalty, and racial division.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Dalene Matthee's Fiela's Child is widely praised for its evocative portrayal of South African culture and its compelling narrative. Readers commend the depth of its characters and its exploration of identity and family. Critics note, however, that the pacing can be uneven, and some plot developments strain credulity. Overall, it's a poignant and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fiela's Child (Fiela se Kind)?

A reader who enjoys Fiela's Child by Dalene Matthee would likely appreciate richly textured historical novels centered on themes of identity, family, and societal conflict. Fans of Alan Paton's Cry, the Beloved Country or Barbara Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible would be drawn to Matthee's evocative storytelling and intricate character dynamics.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years