Mhudi is the first and only novel by Sol T. Plaatje, a prominent black intellectual and politician in the early part of the twentieth century. I was further interested in reading this novel as I have previously read The Boer War Diary of Sol T. Plaatje, which presented a fascinating look into Plaatje's perception of the world.

Mhudi is a historical novel set in the tribal wars of the early nineteenth century, specifically the disruptions caused by Mzilikazi, and the subsequent arrival of Boer voortrekkers. In addition to these historical events, the novel follows a morolong woman, Mhudi, and her husband Ra-Thaga.

The novel is excellently written, with an epic flair and very modern views on racial and gender equality. It also clearly shows Plaatje's love of language, as he continually takes pleasure in experimenting with different words and turns of phrase.

I recommend this to anyone with an interest in South Africa and its literature.