In 2001-2002, Erika Nortje went on her first overwintering trip to Marion Island as a field biologist for the Centre of Excellence for Invasion Biology at Stellenbosch University being part of the 58th Overwintering Team. Erika fell in love with the island and decided to overwinter for the second time in 2003-2004 as part of the 60th Marion Overwintering team. She always had the dream of becoming a writer and since 2001 has worked on her debut suspense-romantic book, playing off on Marion Island.
ALSA was aware for some time that Erika was on the verge of wrapping up her book and was very excited when she approached us in 2016 to assist her in publishing it. Erika always had the dream to have her first book published before the age of 40. On 11 January 2017, Erika’s debut book – “Katjagter” was published by the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa, on her 40th birthday.
The book launch was held at the Stellenbosch University – a successful launch indeed, where a number of people received a signed copy of “Katjagter” and had the chance to chat about all the photos Erika took during her two years on Marion. Erika received greetings from all over the country, as not all friends and family could attend. ALSA had the chance to read out one very special friend’s greetings and best wishes, all the way from Australia.
This was a very special occasion to all, especially to those that have been to Marion Island, as we all had a chance to ‘travel’ back to the island with Erika, relating to landmarks, events etc. mentioned in the book. The book launch was also a prime opportunity for those that have not visited Marion Island to be introduced to this extraordinary place.
“Katjagter” will be sent to the National Legal Deposit Libraries, which include the Library of Parliament to become part of their collections. The book will also become part of the Africana collection at the JS Gericke Library, Stellenbosch University and can be ordered by contacting the author, Erika Nortje (see details below).
Read more about Erika and her book here.
ALSA wishes Erika all the best and we are looking forward to her next publication.
Anché Louw, Antarctic Legacy of South Africa, Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University, 12 January 2017.
[…] Antarctic Legacy of South Africa has recently published a novel called Katjagter, authored by Erika Nortje. The book is set against the backdrop of Marion Island and tells the story of Heinrich van Vuuren and Karin Wessels. This is the first non-fiction book published by ALSA. Read more on the book and the author here and here. […]