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“On the Contrary : Leading the opposition in a democratic South Africa.”
(Published by Jonathan Ball, South Africa, August 2008)
Pieter Wilhelm, the noted journalist, who edited the book, writes:
“On the Contrary” records in Tony Leon’s finely focused prose an adventure in ideas that involves vivid, real people – friends, colleagues and enemies alike. Many are household names but readers will be startled at Leon’s fresh approach and grasp of the intricate realities and compromises that go into the making of a politician. There is new light here on many of the figures who have shaped modern South Africa ... the themes and personalities that emerge from a half-century of memory and intellectual struggle are unique in our records, told from very near the centre of events ... Leon is unafraid of allowing glimpses of his rich, private life and the brilliance of the book rests in a careful balance of the public and the private and how they nurture each other.”
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Peter Godwin, author of the acclaimed memoir of Africa “When a Crocodile Eats the Sun”, describes “On the Contrary”, as “a great book. It is magisterial ... written with effortless authority and with unique access.”
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Dear Tony,
Have now completed the book. Absolutely first class. A marvelous window into our political life and culture. It reads magnificently. You should consider seriously developing your final chapter 'Future Imperfect' into slim book for release before or after the next election.
I personally want to thank you for all you have done for our country, for keeping the liberal voice alive, and for standing up for the values which we hold so dear.
Regards,
Milton
Professor Milton Shain
Department of Historical Studies and
Director: Isaac and Jessie Kaplan Centre for Jewish Studies and Research
University of Cape Town
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Dear Tony,
What a magnificent and gripping read your book is. I have just finished it and it provides one of the most incisive, well argued and challenging analyses of South Africa that I know of. It is a wonderfully thoughtful display of how biography and history intersect. I think it is magisterial in scope and content, and superbly well written - and with very funny bits, your descriptions of de Lille, Adelaide Tambo, and Calland are uproarious and spot on!
What a great book - just wanted to let you know that. The supreme compliment is that Dave Welsh lent me his copy, and now having read it I'm setting out to buy my own copy as it is more than well worth having to consult and quote.
Congratulations on a great and important book.
All the best,
Mike
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Dinner with JCW and Tony & Michal Leon
What a lovely evening.... Held At F!sh restaurant in Rosebank, where the never-lost-for-words Jenny Cryws-Williams had the pleasure of interviewing the most erudite, entertaining and animated Tony Leon. Kimbal, Di and I were honoured to be at the main table, and met him and his delightful, down to earth and charming wife Michal, as well as Louise, from his publisher Jonathan Ball.
If listening to this raconteur is anything to go by, I can't wait to get into this 1.5kg tome of his.... He alluded to some very entertaining people and events during his time as leader of the DA, which peaked my interest to get home and climb straight under the duvet with the inimitable Mr Leon, metaphorically speaking!
Robyn
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HOW TO ORDER YOUR COPY
For delivery within South Africa, "On the Contrary" can be ordered online from either Kalahari.net or Exclusive Books.
The book will be available online for international delivery in the near future. Order details will be advertised here as soon as possible.
For further information, please email info@tonyleon.com
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