Best PAGECAST by Jonathan Ball Publishers Podcasts (2025)

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Pagecast takes KBF 2025: "Stories of Identity, Justice, and Change" 20:36

12h ago20:36

20:36

In this episode of Pagecast at the Kingsmead Book Fair, Sibongile Machika sits down with two dynamic South African authors, Siya Khumalo and Khaya Dlanga, as they explore how storytelling challenges norms, sparks dialogue, and drives social change in today’s South Africa. Khaya Dlanga, author of Life Is Like That Sometimes, reflects on personal res…

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Pagecast takes KBF 2025: "Thoughts on Love" 26:01

12h ago26:01

26:01

Welcome to a fascinating episode of Pagecast at the Kingsmead Book Fair hosted by Kelly Ansara. What was meant to be a thoughtful discussion on writing the moment quickly turned into a passionate conversation about one of life’s biggest questions: is love fate or choice? Join Kelly as she chats with four brilliant South African authors, each bringi…

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Pagecast takes KBF 2025: "The Different Voices in South African Storytelling" 19:26

12h ago19:26

19:26

In this episode of Pagecst, Jean-Marie Korff is in conversation with four authors who are creating thrilling narratives around crime, culture, identity and their social realities. In this episode, Jean-Marie Korff speaks with: Marina Auer, a medical doctor turned author, whose novel Single Minded explores the pressures and resilience of hospital li…

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Pagecast takes KBF 2025: "Fictional Worlds, Real Emotions" 14:57

3d ago14:57

14:57

In this episode of Pagecast, Shakti Pillay is chatting to three incredible authors about the art of storytelling and how they build fictional worlds that resonate with real emotions and reflect complex human experiences. Join us for an intimate conversation with: Louisa Treger, acclaimed author of The Paris Muse, who brings to life the untold stori…

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Pagecast takes KBF 2025: "The Authors Rewriting Childhood in South Africa" 28:16

3d ago28:16

28:16

In this special episode of Pagecast, we bring you an inspiring conversation recorded live at the 2025 Kingsmead Book Fair. Hloniphile Mzangwa is in conversation with four South African children’s authors who are transforming childhood through stories that celebrate empathy, inclusion, cultural pride, and representation. Meet the incredible voices b…

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Pagecast takes KBF 2025: "Get To Know The Team Behind it All'' 15:52

4d ago15:52

15:52

Relive the excitement of the 2025 Kingsmead Book Fair with our exclusive behind-the-scenes podcast episode. Just minutes before the festivities began, Maryam Adams sat down with the talented team who brought this year’s incredible programme to life. Alex Bouche, Sue Nyathi, Jennifer Platt and Pamela Power spoke about what it took to organise one of…

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Khaki Fever by Lindsay Norman 34:25

10d ago34:25

34:25

Eva Mazza sits down with Lindsay Norman to discuss her latest novel, Khaki Fever. This lively conversation delves into the inspiration behind the book, Norman’s writing process, and the unique South African setting that brings the story to life. Khaki Fever is ‘Chick-lit in khaki’ that offers pure escapism with the perfect combination of romance an…

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “The Last Word: Endings, Echoes, and What Comes Next” 23:33

15d ago23:33

23:33

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Reflecting on the festival buzz in the air, standout moments, and the nostalgic love affair with Johannesburg, all against the breathtaking beauty of Franschhoek. In “The Last Word: Endings, Echoes, and What Comes …

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “Moments That Moved Us: A Festival in Reflection” 19:11

16d ago19:11

19:11

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Sandiswa Tshabalala sat down with Ute Hermanus, Thandolwethu Binda, and Emily Bolton for “Moments That Moved Us: A Festival in Reflection” — a heartfelt and energising chat with the JBL FLF crew. They shared the be…

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: "The Art of Story: When Words and Images Collide" 16:00

16d ago16:00

16:00

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Ute Hermanus sat down with Ashraf Jamal for “The Art of Story: When Words and Images Collide.” It was a brilliant, thought-provoking conversation that danced between the visual and the verbal. A true celebration of…

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “Karen, Rewritten: Owning the Name in a Meme-Worn World” 17:44

16d ago17:44

17:44

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Three Karens — Schimke, Vermeulen, and Lane — gathered to unpack what it means to be a Karen in 2025. The conversation, titled “Karen, Rewritten: Owning the Name in a Meme-Worn World”, was outrageously funny. They …

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “This Continent Speaks: Africa, Innovation, and the Stories That Shap 16:02

17d ago16:02

16:02

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Abi Daré and Bronwen Everill join Sibongile Machika to explore the borders of Africa as they appear in fiction and non-fiction, and how these boundaries are often more porous than we assume. Both authors reflect on…

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “Across Borders, Between Lines: Fiction from Everywhere” 14:08

17d ago14:08

14:08

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Maryam Adams engages in a compelling conversation with Elleke Boehmer and Mary Watson, exploring their latest works of fiction, the diverse settings that inspire their narratives, and the audiences they envision wh…

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “Page-Turners and Perpetrators: The Craft and Crime of True Stories” 15:52

17d ago15:52

15:52

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Caryn Dolley, Kelly Ansara and Nicole Engelbrecht talking true crime, ethical sleuthing and getting to the bottom of Caryn’s obsession with painting cats as famous Pawtraits.…

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Pagecast takes Franschhoek Literary Festival 2025: “Places That Stay: Memory, Movement and the Stories We Tell” 11:46

17d ago11:46

11:46

Pagecast along with a host of book people take a seat in the vibrant courtyard of Smitten Cafe surrounded by a soirée of literary buzz. Join Kelly Ansara and Justin Fox as they chat about place, memory and non-fiction writing. We also hear more about Justin’s unexpected skill that helps him with his writing.…

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Being There: Backstories from the Political Front by Tony Leon 40:22

20d ago40:22

40:22

Join the Mayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tony Leon about his latest book, ‘Being There: Backstories from the Political Front’. Tony Leon offers insightful reflections on the nostalgia of childhood, the formative experiences of school, and the pivotal ‘what if’ moments that shape a life …

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David Baddiel on South Africa, Comedy, Memory and Family 29:12

25d ago29:12

29:12

In this episode of Pagecast, acclaimed journalist Gus Silber interviews the brilliant David Baddiel during his visit to South Africa for the 2025 Jewish Literary Festival. David Baddiel is a British comedian, bestselling author, and cultural commentator known for his sharp wit and thought-provoking works like Jews Don’t Count. His latest work is a …

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The Ex Effect by Jo Watson 28:03

28d ago28:03

28:03

Breakups, makeups, and second chances! On this episode of Pagecast, Ute Hermanus sits down with bestselling romance author Jo Watson to dive into her latest irresistible read, The Ex Effect. From messy love stories to heartfelt humour, Jo shares what inspired the novel, how she crafts chemistry between characters, and why exes make the best (and wo…

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Memory, Madness, and Memoir: James Whyle on We Two From Heaven 34:25

2M ago34:25

34:25

In this episode of Pagecast, Jeremy Boraine sits down with acclaimed author James Whyle to discuss his latest literary work, We Two From Heaven. In this conversation they touch on the creative process, the themes that shaped the book, and the profound narratives woven throughout this remarkable work. Don't miss this insightful conversation that bri…

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Inside The Lion’s Den: Iris Mwanza on Justice, Identity & Fighting Power in 1990s Zambia 32:49

2M ago32:49

32:49

Join us for a riveting conversation on Pagecast as Sewela Langeni sits down with Iris Mwanza to explore her gripping debut novel, The Lion's Den. This legal thriller set in Zambia's turbulent political landscape tackles themes of justice, gender equality, and systemic oppression. More about the book: Rookie lawyer Grace Zulu does not give up easily…

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Risk, Evolution, and Humanity’s Winning Streak: Don Ross on The Gambling Animal 32:03

2M ago32:03

32:03

Join David Gorin as he sits down with Don Ross to discuss The Gambling Animal, a compelling exploration of human behaviour and risk-taking. Discover the psychology behind gambling, its societal impacts, and why we’re wired to take chances. Tune in for an insightful conversation. More about the book: Evolution is a series of bets, and no animal gamb…

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The Rise and Return of White Supremacy: Gavin Evans in Conversation with Beverley Roos-Muller 29:33

2M ago29:33

29:33

This week on Pagecast, Beverley Roos-Muller sits down with Gavin Evans to discuss his thought-provoking new book, White Supremacy: A Brief History of Hatred. Tune in for a deep dive into the complex and often disturbing history of white supremacy, and explore how its legacy continues to shape our world today. Don't miss this important conversation!…

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Empire, Architecture and Influence: The Life of Sir Herbert Baker with John Stewart 27:05

3M ago27:05

27:05

This week on Pagecast, Michele Magwood is in conversation with John Stewart about his book, the first complete and comprehensive biography of Sir Herbert Baker. More about the book: Architect Sir Herbert Baker left an indelible mark on South Africa and much of the British Empire in the first half of the 20th century. This is the first full biograph…

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Modern Dating Decoded: Dudu Nhlabathi-Madonsela’s No-Nonsense Guide to Mjolo Mastery 23:30

3M ago23:30

23:30

This week on Pagecast, Ndizwanga Nemanashi is in conversation with Dudu Nhlabathi-Madonsela about her book, The Dating Playbook. You can look forward to hearing Dudu answer all your burning questions about dating, love and desire. MORE ABOUT THE BOOK: Dating is an extreme sport and no one survives it unscathed. But to find The One, you must get bac…

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Playing Flirty with Shameez Patel: Nerdy Romance, Board Games & Big Risks 30:12

3M ago30:12

30:12

This week on Pagecast, Qarnita Loxton is in conversation with Shameez Patel about her latest book, a geeky romantic comedy called Playing Flirty. MORE ABOUT THE BOOK: For Rose Marie Jones, risks are a hard no–except for Game Night. For one precious evening a week, Rose can forget about her demanding boss and her lackluster love life and focus on be…

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From Perimenopause to Post-Menopause: How Food Can Transform Your Journey with Dr. Linia Patel 29:32

4M ago29:32

29:32

In this episode of Pagecast, we dive deep into the challenges of menopause and the powerful role your diet can play. Suzy Brokensha is in conversation with Dr Linia Patel about her authoritative cookbook, Food For Menopause. They share real insights on how food choices can make a huge difference in managing menopause naturally. If you’re going thro…

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Die Stellenbosch Mafia by Pieter du Toit 32:27

4M ago32:27

32:27

“Comrade president, Stellenbosch is ’n groot probleem. Ons weet jy is na aan Stellenbosch … ons het Stellenbosch nie tot die parlement verkies nie. Ons het nie die Ruperts verkies nie.” – Die EFF-leier Julius Malema aan President Cyril Ramaphosa Daar word bitsig na hulle as die “Stellenbosch-Mafia” verwys en baie reken die klub van miljardêrs wat i…

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The Pagecast Holiday Round-up: Booksellers Recommendations 15:23

6M ago15:23

15:23

Welcome to Pagecast, the podcast by Jonathan Ball Publishers that brings books to life! This festive season, we’re stepping into the world of booksellers to uncover the stories behind the stories. Join us as we explore Johannesburg’s literary scene, hearing directly from the experts – the booksellers themselves – about their top recommendations for…

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The Pagecast Holiday Round-up with Bookstagrammers 44:52

6M ago44:52

44:52

Welcome to Pagecast, the podcast by Jonathan Ball Publishers that brings books to life! This festive season, we’re stepping into the world of bookstagrammers to uncover the stories behind the stories. Bookstagram is a community of book lovers on social media that share their love for all types of reads! Whether you're searching for the perfect gift…

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Unveiling the Anglo-Boer War: Commando by Deneys Reitz 36:47

6M ago36:47

36:47

Join us on Pagecast as CapeTalk's John Maytham interviews Professor Fransjohan Pretorius about the definitive account of Commando: A Boer Journal of the Anglo-Boer War. This historical masterpiece, written by Deneys Reitz, offers a firsthand account of the war, featuring pivotal figures like President Paul Kruger and Winston Churchill. Discover how…

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Sarah Bullen on The Other Side: Mysticism, Magic, and Near-Death Experiences 32:10

6M ago32:10

32:10

This week, join Pnina Fenster as she delves into the mysteries of the afterlife with author Sarah Bullen, discussing her captivating book, "The Other Side: Journeys into Mysticism, Magic and Near Death." Dive into the realms of spirituality and discover how some individuals connect with worlds beyond our own, seeking answers to life's most profound…

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Unraveling the Springboks' Historic Victory: Twice The Glory by Lloyd Burnard and Khanyiso Tshwaku 46:24

7M ago46:24

46:24

🏉 New Episode Alert! 🎙️ On this episode of Pagecast, sports broadcaster Cato Louw chats with authors Lloyd Burnard and Khanyiso Tshwaku about Twice the Glory—the definitive account of the Springboks' epic journey to becoming four-time Rugby World Cup champions. "You only need to win a game by one point." – These words from Jacques Nienaber after So…

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The Latest Benny Griessel Thriller: Leo by Deon Meyer 44:38

7M ago44:38

44:38

On this episode of Pagecast, true-crime podcaster, freelance writer, and audiobook narrator Nicole Engelbrecht sits down with internationally acclaimed thriller writer Deon Meyer to discuss his gripping new novel, Leo. 📖 About the book: A student's mysterious death in the Stellenbosch mountains. A former special forces soldier silenced. A corrupt p…

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Botha, Jan Smuts and the First World War by Antonio Garcia and Ian van der Waag 38:53

7M ago38:53

38:53

Join us on Pagecast as Antonio Garcia and Ian sit down with historian Karen Horn to discuss their groundbreaking book, Botha, Jan Smuts and the First World War. This unique volume explores the pivotal roles of Prime Minister Louis Botha and his deputy, Jan Smuts, as they navigated the Union Defence Force through internal rebellion and external thre…

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Exploring Humanity Beyond Earth: Sam Wilson on The First Murder on Mars 22:29

7M ago22:29

22:29

Join Lauren Beukes in this captivating episode of Pagecast as she chats with Sam Wilson about his thrilling new novel, The First Murder on Mars. This gripping tale introduces Rose Fuller, the first human born on Mars, who envisioned a brighter future that never came to pass. It also follows Dylan Ward, a frontier-raised woman navigating her way bac…

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Louisa Treger on The Paris Muse: Art, Love, and Dora Maar's Untold Story 34:25

7M ago34:25

34:25

Join Karina Szczurek this week on Pagecast as she delves into the captivating world of art and passion with author Louisa Treger, discussing her latest novel, "The Paris Muse." This gripping tale explores the tumultuous relationship between Dora Maar and Pablo Picasso, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1930s Paris. Dive into the complexities of l…

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Nomad heart by Ian Roberts 36:53

8M ago36:53

36:53

In this episode of Pagecast, Jo Prins sits down with South African icon Ian Roberts to discuss his memoir, Nomad Heart. Known for his unforgettable roles as Sloet Steenkamp in Arende and Boet in the legendary Castrol adverts, Ian delves into his extraordinary journey from a free-spirited childhood on an Eastern Cape citrus farm to becoming a celebr…

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From the Cape Flats to the Classroom: Jonathan Jansen's Inspiring Story 41:23

8M ago41:23

41:23

In this episode of Pagecast, award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis interviews Professor Jonathan Jansen about his powerful memoir, Breaking Bread. Known as a professor, pundit, and self-proclaimed “public nuisance,” Jansen has long been a fearless voice on South African schools, universities, race, politics, and society. In Breaking Bread, Jansen …

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Beeld 50: Samesteller Erika de Beer 35:11

8M ago35:11

35:11

In Beeld 50 samesteller Erika de Beer, vertel dié geliefde koerant se joernaliste hoe hulle juis dit gedoen het deur die dekades en wat hulle steeds bybly van daardie ervaring. “Nooi, ek praat nie met julle nie. Julle lieg van bladsy een tot die einde . . . maar ek is nie so seker van die sport nie.” – “Kommandant-generaal” Fritz Meyer van die Wenk…

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Talking about the ANC's Legacy: Pieter du Toit on The Super Cadres 36:52

8M ago36:52

36:52

Join us on Pagecast as bestselling author Pieter du Toit delves into the complex legacy of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa. In his latest book, The Super Cadres, du Toit examines the party's journey from its early promise to its current state of dysfunction. He explores pivotal questions about the ANC's rise to power, the inevit…

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Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town: Mervyn Sloman 24:12

9M ago24:12

24:12

In this episode of Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town, we’re excited to dive into the vibrant world of the Open Book Festival—a celebration of South African literature within an international context. Each year, the festival brings together a diverse range of voices, offering readers and writers alike the opportunity to connect with thought-provoking …

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Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town: Niq Mhlongo 21:36

9M ago21:36

21:36

Welcome to Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town, a special edition of the regular podcast brought to you by Jonathan Ball Publishers. Usually, we explore the latest in literature year-round, but today, we're coming to you straight from the heart of the Open Book Festival—Cape Town's annual celebration of South African literature in an international cont…

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Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town: Qarnita Loxton 10:54

9M ago10:54

10:54

Welcome to Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town, a special edition of the regular podcast brought to you by Jonathan Ball Publishers. While we usually explore the latest in literature throughout the year, in this episode we're broadcasting directly from the Open Book Festival—Cape Town's annual celebration of South African literature in an international…

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Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town: Lesedi Molefi 28:10

9M ago28:10

28:10

Welcome to Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town, a special edition of the regular podcast brought to you by Jonathan Ball Publishers. While we usually explore the latest in literature throughout the year, in this episode we're broadcasting directly from the Open Book Festival—Cape Town's annual celebration of South African literature in an international…

1
Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town: Shubnum Khan 10:26

9M ago10:26

10:26

Welcome to Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town, a special edition of the regular podcast brought to you by Jonathan Ball Publishers. Usually, we explore the latest in literature year-round, but in this episode, we're coming to you straight from the heart of the Open Book Festival—Cape Town's annual celebration of South African literature in an internat…

1
Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town: Gothataone Moeng 15:45

9M ago15:45

15:45

Welcome to Pagecast at Open Book Cape Town, a special edition of the regular podcast brought to you by Jonathan Ball Publishers. Usually, we explore the latest in literature year-round, but in this episode, we're coming to you straight from the heart of the Open Book Festival—Cape Town's annual celebration of South African literature in an internat…

1
Deon Lamprecht - Bloedbroers 47:47

9M ago47:47

47:47

“Dis politici wat oorlog verklaar, nie ons nie. Ons het gedoen wat ons geglo het ons moes doen en hulle [die vyand] ook . . .” - Marco Caforio, ouddienspligtige Op 10 Junie 1980 gedurende 'n eindelose dag van bloedige gevegte onder die Angolese son is 13 lede van die Suid-Afrikaanse Weermag dood en etlike beseer toe 61 Gemeganiseerde Bataljon Groep…

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Reconnecting with Nature: Amphibious Soul by Craig Foster 36:05

10M ago36:05

36:05

Join us for a special episode of Pagecast as the Mayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, sits down with renowned filmmaker and naturalist Craig Foster. Craig shares insights from his latest book, Amphibious Soul: Finding the Wild in a Tame World, a captivating memoir that explores his adventures in the Great African Seaforest and beyond. Discover h…

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Killer Stories - Conversations with South African serial murderers by Brin Hodgskiss and Nicole Engelbrecht 40:38

10M ago40:38

40:38

Thank you for tuning into this episode of Pagecast, presented by Jonathan Ball Publishers. Today's episode features Killer Stories - Conversations with South African serial murderers! ‘If you made me angry, for that anger to go away, I have to get hold of you . . . I have to do something to you.’ These chilling words were spoken by one of South Afr…

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We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children by Vanessa Raphaely and Karin Schimke 54:58

10M ago54:58

54:58

Thank you for tuning into this episode of Pagecast, presented by Jonathan Ball Publishers. Today's episode features We Were Perfect Parents Until We Had Children by Vanessa Raphaely and Karin Schimke Having kids is a baffling endeavour beset with sulk, meltdowns, anxiety and disappointment and that’s just the parents! When you get that call to the …

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