In No Uncertain Terms: A South African Memoir

by Helen Suzman

A former member of the South African Parliament describes her friendship with Nelson Mandela, and how she withstood the badgering of racist ruling Nationalists to challenge apartheid

Genres: Africa, South Africa, Biography, Memoir, History, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir

300 pages, Hardcover

First published June 24, 1995

Reviews

[Quintin Zimmermann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helen Suzman was an incredibly brave lady that used the platform of Parliament to speak out against injustice and apartheid. Often a lone voice against the cacophony of prejudice and racism.

Unfortunately, her memoirs do not do her justice. I found it to be written in a very dry, journalistic type manner - filled with facts and event, but short on the emotions and feelings behind the history.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Published in 1993 after her long career in Parliament, Helen Suzman's memoir showcases her strength and wit in a long struggle for equal rights for all in South Africa. The memoir ends before the 1994 election in which the ANC took the majority and Nelson Mandela became head of state. This is an important record of a critical period in South African history written by a key figure, a woman who was well educated, articulate and dedicated to her beliefs.

Quote about Margaret Thatcher: "Mrs. Thatcher's powers of endurance and her courage are undeniable. A sense of humor, however, is not her strong point." Suzman's sense of humor is evident throughout the book and it doubtless helped her deflect the many barbs thrown at her during 35 years as a liberal (and a Jewish woman) in Parliament.

[Sergio GRANDE · Rating 4 out of 5]

A determined, highly-intelligent, feisty and outspoken Jewish female: the biggest thorn on the side of the Apartheid government. A very good read for anyone interested in the recent history of South Africa

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Riveting autobiography of the South African woman who spent decades as the only anti-apartheid member of parliament.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written and efficient. A no delays, no frills account of a remarkable life lived by a remarkably tenacious 7 competent person.