Ahead of Africa Day on Monday, 25 May, Exclusive Books has released its latest Exclusive Books Recommends selection, featuring a mix of local storytelling, internationally acclaimed fiction and thought-provoking non-fiction.
The May selection focuses on stories that encourage reflection, connection and conversation, while also celebrating the richness of African voices and experiences.
Book of the Month
Leading the list as Book of the Month is Wild Things Never Die by Sally Andrew.
Set against the backdrop of the Karoo, the novel explores themes of survival, justice and belonging through a distinctly South African lens. Known for her atmospheric storytelling and vivid sense of place, Andrew once again brings local landscapes and complex characters to life in a story that blends mystery with emotional depth.
Fiction Highlights
The fiction lineup also includes several bestselling and highly anticipated titles. Readers can look out for The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett, The Testaments by Margaret Atwood and The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman.
Local voices continue to feature strongly through books such as We Inherit the Fire by Kagiso Lesego Molope and Kanniedood by Irna van Zyl, both offering stories rooted in South African realities and experiences.
For readers drawn to emotional and character-driven narratives, the selection also includes The Girl with the Suitcase by Lesley Pearse and The Death of Us by Abigail Dean, while The Violin Maker’s Secret by Evie Woods and The Secret Society of Librarians by Kate Thompson offer mystery, history and literary escape.
Non-Fiction Highlights
On the non-fiction side, the collection explores themes of ambition, self-growth and resilience.
Highlights include Everything Is Tuberculosis by John Green, Start with Yourself by Emma Grede and Cape Flats to the JSE by Phakamisa Ndzamela, which tells a proudly South African story of perseverance and success.
Exclusive Books says the May selection is aimed at readers looking for meaningful stories and books that inspire deeper reflection during the Africa Day period.
Beyond the Books
Alongside the books, stores are also showcasing a curated range of notebooks, stationery and keepsakes to complement the reading experience.
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