The Sinners’ Bench weaves an artful tapestry of the arrival of German missionary families in South Africa, and the stories of succeeding generations. It is radiant with history, humour, and poignancy, all captured with delightful obliquity. I have not read a family memoir with greater enjoyment.
Michael Titlestad – Professor, Department of English, Wits
About the Book
Just before she dies, the writer’s mother leaves her with a difficult secret and an urge to retrieve the past. After years of trawling through family archives, she realizes the difficulty, if not the impossibility, of doing so. However, what the writer does discover is a passionate and moving love story, which becomes the core of this book.
The Sinners’ Bench uses different modes and tones to tell its story. There are extracts from letters, homespun publications, family myths and stories, childhood memories, and photographs. The personal story is conveyed as a memoir, which in turn is embedded in family history. This history is explored as part of the history and culture of the German Lutheran missionaries in South Africa.
About the Author
Maren Bodenstein has published short stories, poems, and children’s books both locally and in international anthologies. In 2012, the novel Shooting Snakes was published by Modjaji Books. She has taught screenwriting and creative writing at the Open Window University in Lusaka, and makes a living as an editor, writing coach, and gardener.
Book Launch Invitation
JHB Launch
Join us for the launch of The Sinners’ Bench on Thursday, 8 May at Love Books in Melville at 6pm. Maren will be in conversation with David Medalie.
RSVP to Kate Rogan by emailing kate@lovebooks.co.za
