Reviews

Garth Johnstone, Saturday Independent, 1 Nov

SA writer, print columnist, radio commentator and TV presenter Denis Beckett turns to fiction for the first time with Magenta (published by UKZN Press).

A colourful and clever thriller, the book is written in Beckett’s unique style, demanding readers keep their wits about them and stick steadfastly to the storyline as the plot develops.

From the outset, the writing in this 500-plus-page work is witty and sharp, and Beckett cleverly taps the circumstances, mood and psyche of many in
South Africa today in developing his leading characters.

Described as ‘rambunctious, hilarious, thoughtful and enthralling’ by columnist William Saunderson-Meyer, Magenta is exactly what you’d expect from this provocative commentator on SA society.

*****

Sandra Gordon, The Media magazine

Published: 07 November 2008

Some of the media matters that caught the eye of Sandra Gordon: Denis Beckett’s book launch.

Attended Beckett’s latest book launch on 5 November. He was his usual ebullient, self-deprecating self. Even the stilted question and answer session hosted by Sunday Times book editor Timon Smith raised laughs.

His first novel, entitled Magenta, is described as a “utopian thriller the likes of which you are guaranteed never to have encountered before”. Told us he was prompted to read the tale because he is angered by what’s happening in South Africa, describing the situation as “covered in a cow patty”, a reference I surmise to the seeming lack of accountability from those in power and our having to digest and somehow live with the untenable levels of crime and corruption.

I will review his novel this weekend, within arms reach of a glass of chilled champagne and the gentle mountain slopes of Dullstroom beckoning through the lodge window. He’s right, we have all learnt to cope somehow.

The average age of the assembled guests at Boekehuis (a quaint book shop associated with Media24 in some way) wa