South African Stories: True Stories of Faith, Hardship and Deliverance from the Hearts and Pens of Black South Africans, edited by Dan Cole, has been published.

"South African Stories" are true stories and free verse from the hearts and pens of black South Africans. By themselves they reflect how God has made a significant impact in their lives and are warm reminders of how God reaches across our planet to touch the lives of people everywhere. As a collection, they are unforgettable. Includes the CD "Ulubekezela Perseverance" by Umtshezi Heroes. A collection of Zulu music from the heart of South Africa.

The material they have written takes on deeper meaning when placed in the context of their culture, their recent history and in some cases their language expressions. To understand the legacy of Apartheid, the place of women in society and what it is like to be abused makes these reflections even more powerful. To know what it is like to be raised with racial hatred makes Luvuyo Ntombnas story of color convicting. Or to know that Sipho Kanyile is a Zulu pastor whose daughter was gang raped. That the culprits were caught, brought to trial and then released by the magistrate, makes his poem The Other Side" heart wrenching.

The Stories are Facinating, awe inspiring, enjoyable and eye opening . . . I found myself anticipating the next story and read on until I was completely finished."

Rev. Charles and Sarah West, American Baptist Missionaires, Johannesburg, South Africa

Dan Cole,Editor, is an experienced pastor, church planter and international missionary, has trained church leaders for more than twenty-five years. Cole interviewed each of the participants during his 2 year assignment to South Africa. Author of Take My Hand, North Wind Publishing, 2002.

Umtshezi Heroes, are a South African accapella group of 10 Zulu young men from Durban, searching for a way out of poverty and a career in music.

This collection of stories from native South Africans covers topics of Apartheid, Racism (both black and white), Rape, Aids, Poverty, Demons, Deliverance, Self-Acceptance, Marriage, Love, Warriors, Gods Loving Touch, Thanksgiving, Cancer and Wisdom. Some of the stories and free verse are difficult to read, while others are inspirational and heartwarming. This collection is unforgettable! The CD Ulubekezela Perseverance by Umtshezi Heroes showcases traditional South African rhythms and harmonies which is uplifting and joyous.

Marketing Support-Author Dan Cole is available for author signings in the state of Illinois and for interviews via phone. Contact the publisher Janet Robbins, North Wind Publishing, P.O. Box 192,Rockport, ME, 207-542-4310. Book reviews. National press release.

Publication Date April 2003

Category: General Interest/Ethnic/Cultural

Retail price $13.95

96 pages

Paperback, plus bind-in CD

Trim: 5.5 x 8.5 inches

ISBN 0-9720620-1-7

Distributed by FaithWorks. Resellers may order by calling 1-877-323-4550.

Individuals may order at your favorite bookstore.