Mendi book for students

FIRST-YEAR English students at the University of KwaZuluNatal have Fred Khumalo’s newly-released novel centred around the sinking of the SS Mendi as a prescribed set book.

Lecturer Darryl David told The Independent on Saturday he’d be shocked if Dancing the Death Drill didn’t garner at least one literary prize. “Fred has penned a book that will stand the test of time… It is really beautifully written.”

The SS Mendi sank in the English Channel 100 years ago this month and more than 600 black South African World War 1 volunteers drowned. Legend has it that they performed a dance on the deck.

“I pride myself on choosing exciting texts for my students,” said David. “Others may preach about decolonising the book and Africanising the curriculum. I just went ahead and did it.” – Duncan Guy