Building Readers. Building Community.
Connecting Readers Through African Literature
The Johannesburg Book Club (TJBC) is a Pan-African literary group based in
Johannesburg, South Africa, dedicated to enthusiasts of African literature.
TJBC provides a platform for readers to engage with African literary works and
other writings of interest to people on the continent, nurturing a community that
celebrates the region's rich storytelling heritage.
The club organises regular events, including book discussions, to bring readers
together. TJBC is a vibrant community for those who read for pleasure,
knowledge, enlightenment, and fulfilment, while celebrating the diversity of
African literature.
01
Lively Discussions
Get into lively discussions that—we hate to use the word—unpack the themes, characters, and cultural nuances of each book. It’s like a literary adventure where you’ll debate plot twists and character choices.
02
Culinary Experiences
Each month, the club visits a different restaurant, allowing members to enjoy a variety of culinary experiences. This adds a delicious twist to your reading journey, making it a feast for both the mind and palate.
03
Great Community
Connect with fellow book lovers who share a passion for literature and culture. The club creates a welcoming environment for building friendships and networking with a diverse group of people.
04
Virtual Sessions
You can now join our book club from anywhere in the world. Simply log in from the comfort of your home, your office, or wherever you are. You’ll still enjoy great conversations, thoughtful discussions, and the same welcoming community, just online.
ABOUT US
The Johannesburg Book Club was founded in 2017 by Phumeza Mlokoti from a simple but powerful belief: literature connects us, challenges us, and inspires us to think differently.
What began as an intimate gathering of readers has grown into a niche, Pan-African community committed to celebrating the depth and diversity of African stories. We champion the voices that shape our continent’s narrative and create spaces where conversations around books are thoughtful, engaging, and at times transformative.
Over the years, our journey has expanded beyond the page. We sit at the intersection of literature, arts, and culture — partnering with cinema and independent film spaces, and engaging with storytellers across different mediums. Our work has also led us into important social conversations, including discussions on BBC Radio about literature on the continent. We believe stories do more than entertain; they illuminate the issues that shape our world.
In 2026, we proudly expanded with the launch of The Cape Town Chapter. Bringing the spirit of Johannesburg to the Mother City, our Cape Town community has quickly become a vibrant hub of readers and thinkers. Together, we continue to explore literature, culture, and the ideas that move us.
WHY TJBC?
Our Services
We don't just promote books, we create conversations. Our community is intentional, engaged, and passionate about African stories and the spaces they shape.
01
Social Media Content Creation and Promotion
As TJBC, we offer social media content creation to promote books, authors, and literary events. This includes curated posts, book reviews, author spotlights, and other engaging arts & culture content.
02
Event Collaboration and Partnerships
We collaborate with organizations, schools, and businesses to organise literary-themed events, including panel discussions, book fairs, and writing workshops. We also partner with arts and culture organisations.
03
Book Launch Facilitation and Support
We provide support for book launches, from planning and venue selection to guest management and event promotion. We can host engagement events that include author readings, Q&A sessions, and book signings.
Reading List
