50 Flippen Brilliant South Africans

by Alexander Parker, Tim Richman, Zapiro (Illustrator)

50 Flippen Brilliant South Africans, originally published in 2012, is the second in the 50 People series. What does it take to be a flippen brilliant South African? sheer brilliance and a good story. So, whether naughty or noble, crazy or controversial, here are 50 of the most talented, successful, inspirational, intriguing, fascinating Saffers to have walked the planet… Of course, there are the great statesmen (Mandela, Luthuli, Smuts), the landmark achievers (Charlize Theron, Chris Barnard) and the incredible talents (Miriam Makeba, Irma Stern), but the lesser-knowns will also make a such as Ntshingwayo Khoza, the conqueror at Isandlwana; Ampie Roux, the atom-bomb creator; Ryan Sandes, the world’s best trail runner… As will the honorary inclusions (Churchill, Rodriguez, Gandhi) and the previously scorned (Mbeki, Shaka). But how exactly does Winnie Madikizela-Mandela qualify? From space adventurers (Mark Shuttleworth) and fighter pilots (Sailor Malan) to entrepreneurs (Elon Musk) and environmentalists (Ian Player), this is a raucous celebration of the country we call home, and the perfect partner to the other 50 People books – proving that you just can’t have the bad without the good… ’Clever, informative, witty, well-researched, engrossing.’ – Gorry Bowes Taylor, Fine Music Radio ’Hits exactly the right note; entertaining and informative even if you don't agree with every choice. The bonus of this compilation is that even with famous characters you'll learn something new.’ – Business Day ’A fantastic book.’ – Jenny Crwys-Williams Short-listed for the Nielsen Booksellers' Choice Award 2013 The other books in the 50 People series • 50 People Who Stuffed Up South Africa (2010) •  50 People Who Messed Up The World (2017) •  50 Who F***ed Up South The Lost Decade (2020)

326 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Sonja Arlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars

As is the nature of compilation books, this list is based solely on the author’s choice and opinions. I thoroughly enjoyed 50 People Who Stuffed Up South Africa and could not wait to read this follow-up.

None of the people in this book are saints but in my opinion there were people listed here that displayed special degrees of stupid and should have been omitted. Thabo Mbeki with his memorable statement that HIV does not cause AIDS that (in)directly caused the death of over 300,000 people can not be forgotten and the reasons given by the author why he should be included in this edition was flimsy at best.

About a 1/3 of this book is dedicated to sports heroes and I agree that at its heart sport can uplift and bring a country together. Great examples of the power of mass euphoria is our 1995 Rugby and 2010 Soccer World Cups, BUT the author’s penchant to include sportsmen like Ernie Els just because “ Ernie will be remembered for simply being a great South African” was to me just idol worship (or it could be that I just don’t like golf…)

These adorations felt unnecessary and were yawn inducing, which brought my overall rating down.

There were also some people listed here that convinced me once again that I do in fact live under a big rock!! I almost feel embarrassed to admit that I didn’t know who Elon Musk was and after Googling him I feel even more of an idiot. And this is why I read ☺

There is also a good portion dedicated to musicians who’s anti-establishment lyrics formed the backdrop to our political turmoil in the 70’s and 80’s. Artists like johhny Clegg, Brenda Fassie, Mirriam Makeba and even Sixto (Sugarman) Rodriguez got honorary citizenship to allow him a place on this list. I really loved these.

The first book had sparked many a heated argument hearty conversation about the people contained in its pages and I suspect with this book it will be no different. I am rounding off my rating to a VERY reluctant 4 stars as while it took me forever to finish and some inclusions left me unimpressed I think its just as an important read for South Africans as the first book.

My advice is to first read about the people you are interested and perhaps just skim the rest. Oh and the Zapiro Cartoons are as always excellent.

[M. Suhaimi Ramly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The most famous South Africans today are Charlize Theron and Elon Musk, though both had their careers elsewhere.

And of course, there was Nelson Mandela.

This is a collection of 50 great SAers, their lives and achievements presented in a light, humorous tone. Finished it in one afternoon while lazing around Cape Town. Great women and men from one of the most beautiful countries on the planet.

[Bridget Wrede · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!