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When I was growing up this was one of my favourite books and I was equally enthralled with the movie when it came out. In fact I watched that movie over and over. I loved the history in there and the fact that it took place around and Kruger park. My question is: This is one of South Africa's most well known stories. Why isn't their more fuss over it? I would have thought one could do a Jock of the Bushveld tour in the park with someone relating bits of the story as you passed where it happened. Even Pilgrims Rest didn't have much promotion of the story, bar a few shops which sold the book. I just think its a great story that kids to adults enjoy and it would be great to have a little more info etc about it. We sort of followed the memorial plaques around but not much info.
Just a thought.

Hi bwana,

I loved the book. I even cried in the end.

Your right, there should be more fuss over it.

I was also surprised that there was so little about Jock of the Bushveld

Have loved the book from when I first read it as a kid. Lost my original copy a few years back and just replaced it with one of the centenary editions - DON'T buy this one - it loses a lot of the original appeal as it is cut to ribbons and is made politically correct!

I know that the KNP maps show a couple of Jock places, but that is all. I guess it is after all just a story about a dog regardless of how much of the transport rider history there is involved.

A good tip to every nature loving grandfather, read this book to your grandchildren as a bedtime story, it is guaranteed that they will look forward to the next bedtime and they will think Grandpa/Oupa is just great.

We are off to KRUGER again during the period 8 to 12 March.
This time ist will be even more special as my mother, our daughter Istell, son in law Conrad and grandchildren Elsabe and Nicholas will be joining.
I have recently been asked what we were going to read when "Op die Klein Spoortjies" is done. My reply "Jock of the Bushveld" - my heart swelled when Elsabe replied that this would be just wonderful.

I've seen the updated book and thought about buying it...so I'm going to ask a very pointed question. Is the original racist?

I'm from a mixed family, and would buy this for my children who are African. Just want to know what I'm getting into.

My opinion is to just go ahead and buy the book.
Does not matter if it's racist. It's history.

The original book is not racist, however the K word may be used but is not derogatory. Go ahead and buy it - it is worth reading.

Good info, thank you both.

There was a locally made film (movie) made about 20 years ago .
Parts were actually filmed in the KNP , it is in my opinion worth watching .
The book was written in a way that I could picture the scenes clearly - a worthwhile read in my opinion .

My great, great grandfather actually knew Jock's owner (it is a true story). Some of my fondest memories of my late father is where he told me stories about Jock as was told to him by his father. How I wish I could sit on his lap today and listen to his stories .. but he is gone 37 years already

I would agree with you ndloti, just don't watch it too soon after reading the book