In 2004 we launched the first Picador Africa titles. Last week we launched what will become our biggest selling title to date and I asked Terry Morris, Managing Director of Pan Macmillan South Africa, to write about it.

'Over three years ago, together with Picador UK, we contracted to publish When a crocodile eats the sun by Peter Godwin author of Mukiwa. The proposal was extremely powerful and on the basis of twenty pages we advanced the most we’ve ever done for the Southern African rights for a book. The manuscript was finally delivered and in October this year we released the book in this country under our Picador Africa imprint.

Quaking in our boots, the enormous print-run arrived in our warehouse and the author on our shores  from Manhattan. The book has received an overwhelming response, not only from the media but from readers who have e-mailed us to tell us what an important book this has been for them. The Johannesburg and Cape Town launches were filled to capacity and the book has hit the number two spot on the best-seller charts this week (behind Screw it, let's do it it by Sir Richard Branson). It’s been a privilege to publish this book in South Africa.

An excerpt from a reader:

I have just finished “When a Crocodile Eats the Sun”…..It is the most beautifully written, poignant book I have ever read. I finished it at 3am yesterday and promptly bought 3 copies to forward to colleagues this morning. More will follow for Christmas presents. I thank you for reaching me as you did. No doubt you will reach many more. I hope it sells out many times over.

Watch out Richard Branson – we’re ready for the number one spot!'

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