Nadine Gordimer

The reactions of Duncan's parents when he is accused of murder.

Harold and Claudia have to face the unthinkable: their son has committed murder. What kind of loyalty do they owe a son who has committed this horrible crime and how have they failed him.

As riots and arson spread all over South Africa, Bam and Maureen Smales take up their servant July's suggestion and drive with their children to his remote home village. For fifteen years July has been the decently-treated black servant living in their yard. Now he becomes their host, their saviour - their keeper.

When Julie Summer's car breaks down in a sleazy street, a young Arab comes from a garage to help her. This meeting has intense and unpredictable consequences on both their lives.