If You Want to Make God Laugh

By Bianca Marais,

Book cover of If You Want to Make God Laugh

Book description

From the author of the beloved Hum If You Don't Know the Words comes a rich, unforgettable story of three unique women in post-Apartheid South Africa who are brought together in their darkest time and discover the ways that love can transcend the strictest of boundaries.

In a squatter camp…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked If You Want to Make God Laugh as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

It immersed me in a world I know little about with well-drawn diverse characters. It gave me a glimpse into post-Apartheid South Africa when AIDS is rampant, and how it affect(ed) those in different socio-economic situations.

Marais does an excellent job of moving among these three point-of-view characters: a Black woman and two white sisters, all brought together by a child and the question of parentage. At the heart of the story is life in apartheid-era South Africa. A must-read for anyone who loves messy families and complex characters.

From Jeni's list on secrecy and denial.

Want books like If You Want to Make God Laugh?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like If You Want to Make God Laugh.

Browse books like If You Want to Make God Laugh

Book cover of Mexican Gothic
Book cover of The Mothers
Book cover of Lakewood

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,187

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in child abandonment, South Africa, and women?

South Africa 129 books
Women 649 books