In this gripping social history of South Africa, award-winning journalist Mark Gevisser follows the family of former South African President Thabo Mbeki to make sense of his legacy and understand the future of the country under new President Jacob Zuma. With unparalleled access to Mbeki and Zuma, as well as other key players in the ANC, Gevisser presents an intimate yet accessible account of South Africa's past, present and future. With his stunning account of the Mbeki family's history as a backdrop, Gevisser fleshes out a monumental period in world history that will continue to shape African politics for years to come.

Profiles based on interviews with: Malegapuru William Makgoba; Charles van Onselen; Mamphela Ramphele; Barney Pityana; Olive Shisana; Mbongeni Ngema; Nkosazana Zuma; Thami Mazwai Sam Shilowa; Blade Nzimande; Sibongile Zungu; Welcome Msomi; Sipo Mzimela; Fatima Meer; Zwelake Sisulu; Jill Chisholm; Roelf Meyer; Desmond Tutu; Cyril Harris; Gill Marcus; Trevor Manuel; Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi; Tokyo Sexwale; Mathews Phosa; Manne Dipico; Raymond Mhlaba; Bantu Holomisa; Zola Skweyiya; Brigitte Mabandla; Hugh Masekela; Anant Singh; Brenda Fassie Mark Fish