Synopses & Reviews
The central question raised by this timely and compelling biography is why Fana Khaba, aka Khabzela, a popular South African DJ and youth icon who succumbed to AIDS, did not take anti-retroviral medication to save his own life. The answer reveals a lot about many South Africans' understanding of AIDS as well as the mendacity of the government's approach to the disease. More than just the retelling of a young celebrity's life, this story explores several facets and conditions of modern South Africa and its culture, emphasizing the fragility of the frontier generation whose development has been damaged by years of struggle.
Review
"Liz McGregor's account of the choices and circumstances that caused this talented and visionary young man to die, when he could have had life, is riveting and deeply moving." —Edwin Cameron, author, Witness to AIDS
Review
"Through the compelling story of one remarkable life, this book carefully probes the complexity of South Africa's agonizing struggle to combat AIDS. It will open minds to many of the issues, from the personal to the political, which are at the heart of the crisis triggered by this disease. It is a deeply thought-provoking glimpse of how a country lives with AIDS." —Madeleine Bunting, The Guardian
Review
"It was a heartbreaking day when Khabzela died of AIDS, nonetheless, this book about his agonising death will help to create further consciousness regarding HIV/AIDS, particularly in Africa. What saddens me is that it had to be my buddy Khabzela to die in this way. Rest in peace, Khabzela." —Ashifashaba, DJ, Yfm
About the Author
Liz McGregor is a freelance journalist and a former staff journalist at
The Guardian in London.