Just Now, Now Now

Just Now, Now Now is a witty memoir of an ex-pat Englishman. It begins with his life as a senior diplomat in Pretoria and ends with his departure to a cane farm in Zululand. Jim Parker wanted a second career in a country that hypnotised him on arrival as Britain's first post-Apartheid Defence Adviser in 1993. He chose a farm outside Mooi River in the Natal Midlands and began a B&B and tour broking business. Over 8 years, the Parkers adapted as best they could, but the customs, language, upbringing and outlook were not their own. This book is both charming and funny but the story does not shy away from the realities of rural life. The reader is exposed to the tensions that persist in South Africa. Despite these observations, optimism prevails as the Parkers depart southwards for their third career, exchanging Mooi River's bitter winters for Emoyeni's stifling sub-tropical humidity. This book provides us with a welcome but rare chance to see, and laugh at ourselves as others do, without spite or jealousy.