Goodbye Bafana: Nelson Mandela, my prisoner, my friend

"Goodbye Bafana: Nelson Mandela, My Prisoner, My Friend" unveils the profound journey of James Gregory, a staunch supporter of apartheid, who finds his convictions challenged when tasked with overseeing Nelson Mandela during his imprisonment on Robben Island. Set against the harsh backdrop of South Africa's apartheid era in 1968, this narrative explores the transformative power of empathy and friendship in the face of systemic injustice. As Gregory learns Xhosa and Zulu from his childhood on a Transkei farm, his unique linguistic skills position him as Mandela's prison guard, an assignment that unexpectedly steers him towards a path of advocacy for a free and democratic South Africa. Published on January 1, 1995, this book not only portrays the personal evolution of a man but also serves as a poignant lesson in humility and perseverance. Ideal for adult education settings, it offers a deep dive into racial justice, urging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the societal structures around them.