Why read If You Want to Make God Laugh?

Book cover of If You Want to Make God Laugh

Book description

From the author of the beloved Hum If You Don't Know the Words comes a rich, unforgettable story of three unique women in post-Apartheid South Africa who are brought together in their darkest time and discover the ways that love can transcend the strictest of boundaries.

In a squatter camp…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked If You Want to Make God Laugh as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Susan E. Wadds

Author

It immersed me in a world I know little about with well-drawn diverse characters. It gave me a glimpse into post-Apartheid South Africa when AIDS is rampant, and how it affect(ed) those in different socio-economic situations.

From Susan's 3 favorite reads in 2024.

Jeni McFarland

Author

Marais does an excellent job of moving among these three point-of-view characters: a Black woman and two white sisters, all brought together by a child and the question of parentage. At the heart of the story is life in apartheid-era South Africa. A must-read for anyone who loves messy families and complex characters.

From Jeni's list on The best recent books on secrecy and denial.