Book Review: Igazi Labafo by Titshabona Malaba Ncube

This is a follow-up to the interview by Bulawayo24 News, with one of Zimbabwe's finest Ndebele-Zulu Authors, Titshabona Malaba Ncube, on the launch of his debut novel Igazi Labafo (The blood of the dead).

Igazi Labafo is a novel that depicts how individual characters can be shaped by the environment they find themselves in. It furthermore highlights how an insatiable appetite for money can lead to an individual's demise. Written dominantly in Nguni the novel tracks the life of Mpundule, a character who is a victim of stereotyping and tribal prejudice. He finds himself trapped in a system with no leniency and on arrival in Johannesburg, he finds himself fighting for survival. Fateful circumstances become a factor in him joining a Mafia style criminal gang. In this vicious circle, he discovers that no matter how fast he can run, he just cannot hide from fate.

Igazi labafo is indeed a good read. In the novel, Ncube raises a number of provocative questions and constantly engages the reader causing them to take a new look at their own ideas and perceptions. Ncube manages to wed originality of technique with depth of insight, breadth of knowledge and charm.

The author shows the character's personality in a dramatic way through the use of irony and imagery.

The novel has a good hook and Ncube brilliantly brings the characters to life and make them realistic.

Ncube predominantly uses Nguni languages and these include Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele and Swati. These languages are different but are closely related and mutually intelligible and Ncube uses them well in the interaction between characters from these backgrounds.

Igazi Labafo is a novel that all Zulu, Ndebele and Xhosa readers should not miss. It has an intelligent, captivating and unpredictable plot with well placed humour.  Ncube's ability to depict crime, mystery and espionage in an atmosphere of excitement and suspense is astonishing.

To read a beautiful, interesting and suspenseful adventure then just grab a copy of Igazi Labafo through the details below. You will enjoy a fast-paced story characterised by well developed characters that make you take an interest.

About the Author:

Born Titshabona Malaba Ncube, in a close-knit family, comprising 4 boys and 2 girls, in the Sigangatsha area of Kezi. Mr Ncube began his schooling days at St. Sebastian Primary School where he spent his entire primary education career. He then proceeded to Regina Mundi Sec. School, Gwaai, where he completed his O Levels.

In 1991 Mr Ncube advanced to Matopo High School for A Levels, and also got involved with the unforgettable church choir dubbed the Commissioned Brothers. In 1993 he progressed to the University of Zimbabwe and then deployed to JZ Moyo High School in West Nicholson as an A Level teacher. In 1999 Mr Ncube became the school sports master. As a consequence of his unquestionable passion for sports, especially football, he was appointed head coach for senior boys football team when his glamorous team went on to be adjudged the most disciplined team for the year 2000 in the then Peter Ndlovu Tournament. It was in the end of the same year that Mr Ncube migrated to the UK where he obtained an Honours Degree in Town Planning, and a post graduate Diploma, specialising in Planning Law.

Mr Ncube is currently involved in several projects including being a song writer, author, town planner, and a dj on Afrodeepradio.com, an entertainment internet radio station based in the London.

Contract: +44 7765 386 033
                  titsha27@yahoo.co.uk