
14/08/2025
Ancient Stories Of The North is a journey through the mind of a writer as he attempts to chronicle his daily life. Mr Ramahlako has recently learned to speed-write, and he decides to work on his writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those around him.
While we definitely recommend this book to other readers, we would recommend it to youth and adults, mainly because it will resonate better with them. The writing is tame enough that younger teens could also read it, but most of the styles are adults or on the verge of adulthood. Older readers would take the most from it since they can not only relate, but they may also better pick up on and appreciate Pretty's sometimes subtle humor.
Over the course of the book, Pretty undergoes a definite transformation from child to mature young adult, even though it's only over the course of several months. We love that we could see into his mindset and read exactly what he was feeling when he thought out situations. His thoughts flowed well and moved the book along very quickly.
Pretty's narrative voice is wonderful. He is serious at times, but also very witty, which makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though we're reading someone's actual journal. Sometimes we forget that we are reading a book and not a real-life account. His emotions and the stanzas are so genuine, and they are spot-on for an adultl in his situation.
Pretty has many wonderful insights on life, on topics ranging from writing to faith to matters of the heart. We personally have had some of the same thoughts as Pretty, except A Brother From Exile was able to put them into words.
Ancient Stories Of The North should be essential reading for aspiring writers, those looking for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading amazing classic books. Pretty Ramahlako is an exceptional writer, and Ancient Stories Of The North is a book that will never become obsolete.