Bond of the Sea

A remarkable South African tale of a man, a fish and a lifelong bond with the sea. Set against the rugged coastline and waters of the Southern Cape, this book is a beautifully atmospheric South African adventure novel by Hjalmar Thesen, a writer whose work was deeply rooted in the natural world. At its heart is the extraordinary relationship between a seasoned Knysna angler and a fish called Notchgail, whose story unfolds over 15 years. This is not a conventional fishing book, but anyone who has ever formed a deep attachment to wild water will recognise its appeal. Thesen brings the sea, coastline and the people who live by them vividly to life, capturing the hardship, danger, adventure and enduring fascination of a life shaped by the water. For South African readers, there is the added pleasure of a distinctly local setting and voice, while others will appreciate the author's evident understanding of fish, wild places and the powerful connection between people and the natural world. A particularly nice find for collectors of South African natural-history literature – and one I've certainly not come across often. B&w artwork throughout. Very good condition. Hardcover, 23cm x 15cm, 122 pages.