LitPick Review
Memoirs of a Play-White by Helene Louiesa Mynhardt is an in-depth look into the life of the author through the lens of a changing society and the history that created it. The memoir begins with Louiesa's grandmother's story and slowly evolves into the early life of Louiesa. Throughout these passing years, history and governmental changes are also weaved expertly into the story as the reader gets a a personalized look into segregation and apartheid in South Africa.
Opinion:
The writing style of this memoir pulled me in immediately. Written in third person, the reader is invited to share in the experiences of those whose stories are being told, rather than being informed of them. This memoir does not demand the reader to feel sorry for or ashamed for Louiesa, rather to feel as she did in the monumental moments that shaped her life. The historical facts woven into the story are also done expertly. You do not feel as if you have switched from a memoir to a textbook; every piece of factual information is directly related to the circumstances currently affecting the central character. I recommend this book to older teens and adults who enjoy reading about how events and history shape people's lives.
