Much to chuckle about and evoking happy memories of a simpler and safer
time. (Review by Keith Millar)
It is almost inevitable that when old friends gather, sooner or later,
someone will say “Remember when …?”
With that, the stories will flow and good old days will be recalled,
recounted and fondly remembered. There will be much laughter, maybe even a tear
or two shed, and no doubt, amazement at the common thread which seems to run
through most of our experiences.
Ah, the nostalgia! Ah, the memories!
That is exactly what Trevor Romain’s captivating book Random Kak I Remember About Growing Up In
South Africa is all about. Through his whimsical drawings and his hilarious
– and sometimes poignant – recollections, he takes us on a delightful and
evocative journey down memory lane.
Anyone who grew up in South Africa in the 70’s and 80’s will find that
they share many of the memories related in this book with Romain.
Remember when you wore bell bottom trousers, drank Lion Lager (Down a
Lion Feel Satisfied), listened to Squad
Cars, Jet Jungle and Men From The
Ministry on Springbok Radio, cadet training at school, Volkswagen Beatles
were everywhere, 16mm movies, telephones with rotary dials, Biltong and Pot Roast was on TV, Walls
Ice cream was the best, Hippies, Woodstock, or even your first kiss.
Of course, no white South African male of that age will ever forget
receiving their call-up papers, doing army basics, learning to clean a Unimog
with a toothbrush, border duty and hitchhiking home on passes.
And this is just a very small sample of the countless incidents,
memories and experiences shared by Romain in his book.
Trevor Romain was born and brought up in South Africa before moving to the
United States where he has forged a very successful career as a best-selling author
and illustrator of self-help books for children, as well as a sought-after
motivational speaker.
Random Kak I Remember
About Growing Up In South Africa is an illustrated memoir of his recollections of
growing in Johannesburg. It had its roots in random pictures. posts and blogs he
posted on internet and social media platforms and which developed a global
following. The subject matter will certainly strike a chord with many South
Africans.
Romain has a wonderful sense of humour and his illustrations are
colourful, quirky and insightful. He has a remarkable memory and recalls numerous
events people, places, and slang, which a lot of people will have forgotten.
I read this book in one sitting and find that I keep re-reading sections
to find something to chuckle about and evoke happy memories of a simpler and
safer time. The book is great fun and well worth having. Safe my mate!
Random Kak I
Remember About Growing Up In South Africa is published by the Penguin Group. ISBN Number
is 978-0-14-353817-2. The suggested retail price is R150. – Keith Millar
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