New Name in Zimbabwean Literature - Sarudzai Mubvakure

I just received news that in England they are talking about Sarudzai Mubvakure, a Zimbabwean writer who has published a novel entitled A Disappointing Truth, described by Melissa Levine as "vivid", a novel full of illuminating " descriptions of the global setting in which the story takes place". The plot spans three continents, unfolding in New York, London and Zimbabwe. I can't say much yet since I have not read the book, but the author tells me that she is already working on a next book that deals with land as the site of controversy in the history of Zimbabwe. I like that she revisits the 60s and the 70s, decades that can teach us a lot about where Zimbabwe has been and where it's going.

Sarudzai Mubvakure was born in Islington but then at the age of ten moved to Zimbabwe to live with her parents and siblings. She studied Occupational Therapy at the University of Zimbabwe and then returned to London in 1998 to work. A Disappointing Truth is her debut novel.


If you would like to learn more about Sarudzai Mubvakure, read all about her on the interesting website Zimbablog, which in part reveals the following:

A moving novel from Sarudzai Mubvakure

London based Zimbabwean, Sarudzai Mubvakure has just released her debut novel, entitled A Disappointing Truth…

Review by Melissa Levine: The Tragic Life of Sarah Witt, the lead character so frequently encounters catastrophic events that forgiveness does not seem to have a place in her life. But it is the choice to forgive that ultimately leads the young, bi-racial woman to unconditional love and true happiness.

“Love ignores the faults. And that’s why no matter what, our love is forever.”

Mubvakure’s story unfolds in London, New York, Zimbabwe and ends in Scotland were Sarah accepts the limitations of those who have caused her harm and makes the decision to move forward in her life.

In the fall of 1971, a young woman is violently raped in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Her assault will greatly impact the lives of several people, including Farai, the young boy who witnesses the crime and a group of English entrepreneurs who have set up businesses in Rhodesia to make their fortunes. The members of the “English Boys Club” become deeply involved in the plight of this young woman whose attack results in the birth of a daughter.
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