Looking Out and Beyond, author Toby Hammerschlag

A story of friendship between four young students from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. 

The book celebrates freedom and diversity. It's 1953, and South Africa is gripped by the harsh realities of Apartheid. Just five years after the election of the right-wing Nationalist government, a wave of discriminatory laws has entrenched racial segregation and deepened social injustice. 

Twelve-year-old Ada Courtnay lives a comfortable life with her parents, Jonah and Johelia, on their farm in rural South Africa. Their Cape Dutch home is nestled among cherry blossoms, apple trees and golden fields of corn. 

With maids to run her bath and bring her lunch, Ada is largely unaware of the privileges her white skin affords her. But as her world expands, so does her awareness. Injustices begin to surface through Ada’s quiet observations and a growing curiosity that draws her into the lives of those around her—especially Nicky, the spirited, blue-eyed daughter of a farm worker. Of mixed descent, Nicky faces daily harassment and indignities, particularly from Koos, a local policeman whose watchful presence is both unsettling and persistent. 

To connect with Toby .... 

www.tobyhammerschlag.com.au/ 

www.tobyhammerschlag.com.au/new-page 

www.amazon.com.au/Looking-Out-Beyond-Toby-Hammerschlag/dp/1922800872