f you haven’t made your way down to the Umhlanga Book Fair yet, Sunday, March 22, is your last chance.
The final day of the festival, held at the Apart Hotel, is packed with enough inspiration, local history and practical wisdom to keep your shelves and your heart full for the rest of the year.
The atmosphere is buzzing, the coffee is flowing, and the aisles are filled with incredible local authors ready to share their stories.
Whether you are a lifelong bibliophile or just looking for a meaningful Sunday outing, there is something for everyone.
Attendees can browse a massive selection of books, meet the faces behind the pages and support local vendors offering unique gifts and treats.
Here is the star-studded lineup for today’s final sessions:
“The Guru Guide” by Dr Gurunathen (Guru) Kistnasamy
Kistnasamy isn’t just an author; he’s a pillar of the South African community.
As an educational psychologist, his book, “The Guru Guide”, is a lifesaver for the everyday man. He breaks down complex mental health issues, like grief, marriage hurdles, and school stress, into advice that actually works for real people.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by life’s challenges, his session, from 12.30pm to 1.30pm at the Sapphire Room, is a must-attend.
“Adoption Handbook” by Jeevie Pillay
For anyone who has ever considered adoption, Pillay’s work is essential. Known as the “bible” for prospective parents in South Africa, her handbook demystifies the legal maze of the Children’s Act.
Pillay brings decades of experience as a social worker to the fair, helping families navigate the emotional and legal journey of finding a “forever home” for a child.
The book breaks down the adoption journey into manageable phases, explaining South African adoption laws, including the difference between national and inter-country adoption, what to expect during the home study, and offers practical advice on how to prepare your home and your heart while waiting for a match, as well as other things.
Pillay’s session takes place from 2pm to 3.30pm at the Sapphire Room.
“Emigrant Coolie” by Hemant Nowbath and Pravin Ram
Local history comes alive with co-authors Nowbath and Ram. Their book explores the deeply moving history of Indian indentured labourers in Natal.
From the journey across the ocean to the sugar plantations and the birth of Durban’s townships, this session is a powerful tribute to the resilience and heritage of the community.
Nowbath and Ram have also collaborated on other local history projects, such as “Asherville – Springtown: People and Place” (2018), which chronicles the history of specific Indian residential areas in Durban.
Their session takes place from 4pm to 5pm at the Sapphire Room.
“Afrikology” by Dr Asantwaa Ngidi
Known affectionately as “Mama Yaa”, Ngidi is a powerhouse of the #Decolonise movement. Her work, “Afrikology”, invites us to see the world through an African lens.
She speaks passionately about mental decolonisation and how the ancient principle of Ubuntu can solve modern problems like community development and social healing. It’s a session guaranteed to change the way you think.
Ngidi’s session takes place from 12.30pm to 1.30pm at the Emerald Room.
