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?

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.

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 secrecy and denial.

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