MARIO D'OFFIZI

Mario d'Offizi is a Cape Town based writer and poet. He is also assistant editor of Sawubona magazine.

Mario's work has featured in many publications over the years and his writing - prose and poetry - has been critically acclaimed thanks to its honesty and the warmth of his poetic voice.

From his tough days at Boys Town to wild years in the advertising world, a stint in the restaurant business and a sharp edged journalistic adventure in the DRC, d'Offizi tells his critically acclaimed story, Bless Me Father, with the unfailing sensitivity and warmth of a true poet.

Bless Me Father REVIEWS:

"...a searing look at growing up on the other side of the tracks, around the bend and up the wall. I am not easily moved by memoirs, but d'Offizi's story left me reeling on more than one occasion. This is an author who writes from the heart, not the head. And even though it is a heart that is surely covered with layers of scar tissue, it is not a hard heart. Rather, it is a heart full of kindness and compassion. Given the choice of reading Spud or Bless me Father, I would choose d'Offizi's book every time.” - Ben Trovato


"If you read no other African writer this decade, read this one; we can all associate with his roller coaster ride through the latter half of last century and onward into the current one - you'll laugh with him, cry with him, mourn with him, rejoice with him and ultimately triumph with him." - Leadership Magazine

“...I would advise that you get this book for the boys and the men in your family. I think it's a phenomenal, affirming story of manhood. I highly recommend it.” - Karabo Kgoleng, SAFM Literature

“The... story is light-hearted, shocking, inspirational, poignant and optimistic, and one that any reader cannot help but be deeply touched by.” - The Times

“This book is an absorbing read that offers the example of what can be achieved by not sweating things, big and small, and ultimately surviving life with a smile on your face.” - The Mercury