Nico’s Reviews > The Covenant > Status Update

Eye-opening book. I wish there was a way to know how many characters are based on actual people (some are real, of course). I imagine research for this novel must have been quite heart-wrenching. I feel like Michener "idealizes" the Boer families in his own way. What I mean is there seems to be no marital strife, but maybe that reality would detract from the retelling of history. I'm sure not all were happy couples.

This comment contains spoilers. What's hard about this book - as really captivating and interesting it is - is, unsurprisingly <spoiler> the amount of wanton violence which occurs. Violence from white settlers as well as Africans, also toward their own peoples...and then the fake prophesy. :'( I've been thinking about the section regarding Prince Alfred and his "battue". Very upsetting stuff.</spoiler>

What's hard about this book - as really captivating and interesting it is - is, unsurprisingly <spoiler> the amount of wanton violence which occurs. Violence from white settlers as well as Africans, also toward their own peoples. I've been thinking about the section regarding Prince Alfred and his "battue". Very upsetting stuff. </spoiler>