Thembe’s Cloth

"Thembe’s Cloth is one of those books that quietly wraps itself around your heart and doesn’t let go. The friendship between Thembe and Kristi feels so genuine and tender two girls who should have been divided by the world they were born into, yet somehow find a way to see each other as equals."

"This was a very touching story of Kristi and Thembe, who were from such different worlds and circumstances. But it was also the story of the cruelty and injustice of apartheid in South Africa.For me, this novel was an inside look into that part of South Africa's culture that I could never experience. This wonderful debut novel was both educational and emotional. These characters will stay with me for a very long time. If you love historical fiction this is a must read."

"The characters in this story feel alive. Thembe’s determination, Kristi’s loyalty, and Ellen’s quiet strength create a powerful trio. Joseph’s dream adds another layer of courage and heartbreak. Their lives are shaped by injustice but also by resilience. I was completely drawn into their world and found myself rooting for every member of the family."

This is a heartwarming book about a friendship which survives the apartheid regime in South Africa. It is about survival in a most beautiful country which is described so well. The use of Xhosa in the book adds a special dimension and reinforces the dream of a Rainbow nation. It gives us hope. An excellent read.

"I finished this book some time ago and still think about the characters. I came to know them so well through this touching story that I miss them now. I wonder how they are doing and how their lives have progressed? For me, this the mark of a great read. Beyond the characters that the reader will come to know and love, is the story of a country going through incredible changes and grappling with a troubled past. Although, I was well aware of what had changed in South Africa during the dissolution of apartheid, this story made it all more real, personal and meaningful. I give this book a strong endorsement."

This is a beautiful and sensitively told story that transports the reader to both village life around the campfire and also to the homesteads of the white farming communities.

"The author’s personal connection to South Africa and love for her homeland is apparent . She eloquently describes the beauty of the country, and as you read you become entranced in the setting. You want to watch the sun set over the majestic mountain, smell the scent of the pines, swim in the serene cool water of the river, and even feast on juicy plums while perched on the tree branch with Kristi and Thembe.Thembe’s Cloth is an exceptional story that will remain with you long after the last page is read."

"Simply beautiful & enlightening."

"Wow, amazing read! I truly enjoyed this book and highly recommend. Glenda Ralph Hay expertly weaves a touching story of two families during apartheid in South Africa while gently explaining the difficulties both sides endured during and after the fall."

Thembe's Cloth is a beautifully written debut novel about the unlikely friendship between two little girls from very different backgrounds that come together during and after the Apartheid era in South Africa. It is a story of love and hope, of tragedy and the path to understanding, respect and ultimately, recovery. Glenda managed to fully immerse her readers through intricately woven descriptions, allowing us to feel, see and smell the true essence of such an incredible country.

"Thembe’s Cloth touched me deeply. The bond between Kristi and Thembe felt pure and powerful, especially against the harsh reality of apartheid. The story shows how love can grow even where the world tries to divide people. Ellen’s pain and strength stayed with me long after I finished reading. This book is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time."

This book was incredibly written with such love and sincerity. The story could only have been written by someone who lived during those times and experienced all the emotions themselves. I had to put the book down several times because the emotions it invoked were so strong I couldn’t continue to read.