Exclusive Books Recommends in October features Eben Etzebeth’s new release as Book of the Month, Elizabeth Gilbert’s luminous memoir, and standout South African voices in fiction and non-fiction.
Exclusive Books Recommends is a selection of monthly recommended titles.
Exclusive Books is proud to announce its Exclusive Books Recommends list for October 2025, spotlighting the best new local and international titles across genres. Each month, Exclusive Books curates a collection that celebrates the richness of storytelling and thought leadership, giving readers a trusted guide to what’s new, noteworthy, and unforgettable.
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Book of the Month – Eben Etzebeth’s release Unlocked and Ten Slotte South African rugby legend Eben Etzebeth steps into the literary arena with his much-anticipated memoir. Offering an unflinching look at the highs, challenges and defining moments of his career, Etzebeth’s story is both personal and universal: a testament to resilience, leadership and the pursuit of excellence. Unlocked is out now, while Ten Slotte is scheduled for later this month. |
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All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert From the beloved author of Eat, Pray, Love comes a sweeping, evocative memoir that explores love, renewal and the journeys that transform us. Elizabeth Gilbert’s All the Way to the River promises to be a literary highlight of the year, capturing the imagination of readers worldwide. |
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Spotlight on South African Voices Exclusive Books continues its commitment to championing South African writers:
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Michele Magwood, one of South Africa’s most respected literary journalists, brings her discerning eye to Brahman Hills. This reflective and beautifully written book offers readers a deeply personal exploration of place, memory and meaning. |
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Ashwin Desai and Goolam Vahed add a vital historical dimension with Belonging: A History of Indian South Africans. This meticulously researched work traces the layered and often overlooked stories of Indian South Africans, offering an important lens on belonging, identity and nationhood. |
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Exclusive Books is proud to bring the magic of Pocket Potters to South African readers, with the first three beautifully illustrated editions – Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger – now available in stores nationwide. Published by Bloomsbury and priced at R250, these collectible hardbacks are perfect for both young fans discovering the Wizarding World for the first time and lifelong readers eager to revisit their favourite characters in a fresh, accessible format. “At Exclusive Books, we celebrate stories that ignite imagination across generations, and Pocket Potters is the ideal gateway for younger readers while still offering nostalgia for parents and collectors,” says Maria Varfis, Chief Marketing Officer. With more character editions, including Albus Dumbledore and Luna Lovegood, due in 2026, Exclusive Books continues to be the destination where fans can immerse themselves in the ever-growing world of Harry Potter.
“As always, our October list combines the voices of celebrated international authors with the fresh, bold perspectives of South African writers,” says Maria Varfis, Chief Marketing Officer at Exclusive Books. “From Eben Etzebeth’s inspiring new release to Elizabeth Gilbert’s breathtaking novel, Jackie Phamotse’s fearless fiction, Michele Magwood’s lyrical reflections, and Desai and Vahed’s powerful history of Indian South Africans, there is truly something for every reader.” The full list of October's Recommended Reads is available in-store at all Exclusive Books nationwide and online here. |
