Reviews
What readers are saying about Sheldon Baverstock's novels
Book one
One Black Ear
MR Peter H Wise
Reviewed in the United Kingdom, January 2020
An exceptional interpretation of life in South Africa for those of us that lived through the changes. I couldn't put it down — read it in 2 days. It expertly weaves a real insight into the changes the country experienced. Add it to your list, you won't be disappointed.
Graham Ford
Reviewed in the United Kingdom, May 2021
I read this book in two days. A real page turner. Sheldon created a great story about families in SA and how they adjusted to the new post-apartheid South Africa.
Verified purchaser
Reviewed in the United States, December 2019
The language is beautifully descriptive and took me back to areas of the country I have long missed. A positive, uplifting story of the courage it takes to march to the beat of your own drum. Definitely worth a read.
Verified purchaser
Reviewed in the United States, January 2020
It was a page turner for me and I devoured it in one day. The author's reflections on the previous apartheid system and its unavoidable effects on the people, going forward, are astute and resonated with me as a fellow South African.
Verified purchaser
January 2020
Gripping and believable — this saga could only be written by someone with an in-depth knowledge of the country and the time. Be swept up into this life-changing period in modern South African history told from such a personal and raw, human perspective.
Tom Kelton
January 2021
Great read, couldn't put it down, read in 2 days. Beautiful ending. Looking forward to the author's next book. Highly recommend.
Candy Smellie
United Kingdom, August 2020
I loved your story and felt I could almost have been there. You really took me back. I could almost smell the grasses. I also thought you really knew your people and might have recognised them should I have met them in the street.
Book two
The First Canary
MR Peter H Wise
Reviewed in the United Kingdom, February 2023
There's so much going on in this entertaining and exciting novel — a thorough exploration of friendship, family, loyalty and betrayal against the backdrop of a violent and changing South Africa in the latter days of apartheid. Nothing and no-one is quite what you think they might be.
Graham Ford
Reviewed in the United Kingdom, June 2023
Written with in-depth knowledge and a page-turning pace. The author captured the level of resentment in the townships in such detail, it's as if he lived there. You will not be disappointed with this book.
Oliver Dowson
Reviewed in the United Kingdom, March 2024
The historical angle and first-hand knowledge of the author made it very engaging. I imagine that contemporaries of the author with relatable experiences would enjoy the book even more.
Wolfgang Muller
Reviewed in Germany, August 2024
I was confused by all the different characters initially but reading on brought the story together — I enjoyed it more and more. A brilliant story well told. Can't wait for the next novel.
Keryn Paull
April 2023
An intriguing, interesting read which is as enjoyable for its historic context as it is for its compelling family drama. A strong sense of the unique region and an isolation of the kind that many will relate to.
Kathryn M
A great story set in war-torn South Africa — exactly what I was hoping for from the description. I really felt for the characters and look forward to reading more from Sheldon Baverstock.
Paul V
Pretty good writing here. This author did a great job of creating real people. I see a lot of talent and look forward to his future work.
Book three
They Make Cheese in Nimbin, Don't They?
Samantha Elley
Book reviewer
This book remained true to the feel and history of Nimbin. The author masterfully captures the essence of the town's transformation, painting vivid pictures of both the struggles and triumphs. Rich with historical detail and cultural authenticity — a poignant family saga and a tribute to the resilience of the Nimbin community.
Angela Catterns
ABC Radio interview
It sounds like a wonderful read.
W. Muller
Stahnsdorf, Berlin
Just finished reading your book with great excitement. What a wonderful novel from beginning to end. When is the next one out?