Queer Authors Launch their Debut Books

Queer authors and activists Angelo C Louw and Kabelo Maleke wa Ncube will officially launch their respective debut books at Book Circle Capital in Johannesburg this month.

Louw and Maleke wa Ncube, who are decades-long friends, will be joined by former UNCUT editor Zenaida Martin in a discussion on queerness in African literature, as they reflect on their own literary work.

Louw’s The Problem with Black People is a collection of his writing spanning his decade-long journalistic career, which focuses on issues of racial oppression and its knock-on impact on queer communities. He soft launched the book digitally months ago and is relieved to finally see physical copies on shelves at the store.

Louw said: “I’ve been working hard to make sure the book is accessible to everyone. I’m happy to say that in less than a year since its digital launch, 23 people within my own network have donated copies of the book to every library in Joburg. To finally see the book on shelves around the city is beyond my wildest dreams.”

Makeke wa Ncube’s Taverning After 9 centers queer characters and is set in an Mpumalanga township. The protagonist of the book’s life is turned upside down after meeting a new, and dangerous, love interest.

Makeke wa Ncube said: “I was very nervous to put out the book and very grateful for the response to it. We’re already on our second print run. It is amazing how many people want a copy.”

The launch will take place at Book Circle Capital in Melville on Thursday, 25 April 2024. You can RSVP by emailing bookcirclecapital@gmail.com.