Life is like that sometimes

by Khaya Dlanga

"Wit and wisdom" — Glamour

"... an elegy for the stories that will never be told and a tribute tot he ones that were." — Mail & Guardian

Life is like that sometimes draws readers into the unforgettable personal experiences that have shaped Khaya Dlanga’s world. Weaving heartfelt and often hilarious tales, from his rural Eastern Cape childhood to the profound losses he has faced as an adult, Khaya reflects on life’s unpredictability with warmth and wit.

The vivid stories explore love, loss, loyalty, forgiveness, tradition, chance, mischief, justice, responsibility and resilience, offering insights on relationships, identity and the lessons found in life’s toughest moments. Both deeply moving and laugh-out-loud funny, Life is like that sometimes is an exploration of personal growth, faith and the power of storytelling to find meaning in it all.

303 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 1, 2025

Reviews

[Margaret Crampton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book particularly as I also live in the Eastern Cape and enjoyed a new perspective on the familiar.. Much of the book is anecdotal but it built up to a rich description and shared experience of grief, guilt and mourning on the tragic loss of his beloved brother and the passing of his Mother.

[Aobi · Rating 3 out of 5]

It felt a little bit shallow and there was a disconnect between the chapters but I absolutely loved the final chapters, he poured his emotions and soul there, he worded some things which can never really be explained beautifully.

[Lorraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved this a little less than "It’s The Answers For Me (2021) ‘This is a glimpse into South Africa, a glimpse into humanity: our loves, fears, desires and traumas … so well put together.’ – Thuso Mbedu.

Khaya has found his tribe, his community and his anecdotes have found a home.

[Hlupekile Malama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book, Khaya wrote this book so authentically. Il was a lovely read and the story telling made it even better. It was written from such an honest place with such real life nuggets.

[Shaun Pandu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Khaya really had a way of describing & making me understand what he’s trying to get across & I like that ‘bout writers. Love it! Overall it was a good read, 8/10✨

[Lulu Okada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant storytelling my Khaya as always. ❤️ I finished this in 3 days and didn't want it to end.