Jeanne Goosen facts for kids

Jeanne Goosen (born 13 July 1938 – died 3 June 2020) was a talented South African writer. She was a journalist, a poet, and wrote many books. Her works included short stories, books for children, plays, and novels that won awards.

About Jeanne Goosen's Life

Jeanne Goosen was born in a place called Parow, which is part of Cape Town. She went to university at the University of Cape Town.

Jeanne Goosen became a well-known writer in Afrikaans. She started her writing journey in 1971 with a book of poems called Owl fly away. Later, she wrote another poetry book named Orrelpunte.

She became especially famous for her novels. Her book, We are not all like that, was translated into English by André Brink. This story shows the life of a white family from the lower middle class in the 1950s. The family faces many challenges. The story is told through the eyes of the daughter, Gertie. This book caused a lot of discussion in South Africa. It brought attention to the lives of 'poor white' people at that time.

Another important novel she wrote was Daantjie Dreamer (1993). This book is also about a family in the 1950s. The narrator is the daughter, Bubbles. She wants to break free from the way she grew up. Bubbles talks with her brother, Daantjie Dreamer, who loves to think deeply about things. Through their talks, she learns new ideas about politics and understands more about who she is.

Jeanne Goosen passed away on 3 June 2020. She died in Melkbosstrand, which is a town near Cape Town.

Jeanne Goosen's Books and Poems

Here are some of the books and poems Jeanne Goosen wrote:

• ’n Uil vlieg weg (1971) - This was her first book of poems.
• Orrelpunte (1975) - Another collection of her poetry.
• Om ‘n mens na te boots (1975)
• ’n Kat in die sak (1986)
• Louoond (1987)
• Ons is nie almal so nie (1990) - This novel became very famous.
• Daantjie Dromer (1993) - A popular novel about a family.
• ’n Gelyke Kans (1995) - A collection of short stories.
• Wie is Jan Hoender? (2001) - A shorter novel.
• Straataf (2001)
• Desnieteenstaande (2003) - This was a cabaret, which is a type of stage show with music and comedy.