Zirk van den Berg’s literary journey began in Walvis Bay, Namibia, where he was born before moving to Bellville, South Africa.
His early years were marked by a passion for storytelling, which later led him to study Afrikaans-Nederlands and Art History at the University of Cape Town. After working as a journalist and copywriter in South Africa, van den Berg made a significant life change in 1998, relocating to Auckland, New Zealand.
This move not only marked a shift in his personal life but also a transition in his writing, as he began to pen novels in English, expanding his literary repertoire and reach.
A Prolific Writer in Two Languages
Van den Berg's debut, Ekstra Dun vir Meer Gevoel (Extra Thin for More Feeling), a collection of short stories in Afrikaans, showcased his early talent and set the stage for a diverse and prolific writing career.
His ability to write in both Afrikaans and English has allowed him to straddle different literary worlds. His short historical novel Wydsbeen (Spread-legged) received critical acclaim and was shortlisted for the Rapport Prize and the CNA Debut Prize, cementing his reputation as a significant voice in South African literature.
In New Zealand, his crime novel Nobody Dies was hailed as one of the year’s best thrillers, further establishing his international credentials.
Award-Winning Works and Cinematic Adaptations
Van den Berg’s literary achievements have been recognized with numerous awards, particularly in South Africa. His novel Ek wens, ek wens won the prestigious WA Hofmeyr Prize and the KykNET-Rapport Prize in 2020, solidifying his place among the country’s top writers.
The book’s success extended beyond literature, as it was also recognized for its cinematic potential, a testament to van den Berg’s compelling storytelling.
The Afrikaans translation of his New Zealand crime novel, 'n Ander Mens, also garnered accolades, including the KykNET-Rapport Award for Best Filmable Book in 2014, leading to a film adaptation released in 2019.
A Diverse Literary Portfolio
Throughout his career, van den Berg has ventured into various genres, from historical novels like Half of One Thing and Parts Unknown to contemporary fiction and even television drama.
His ability to weave complex narratives across different settings and time periods has earned him a loyal readership. His recent work, Die onsigbare pou, a short novel about a fictional 1980s Afrikaans rock star, showcases his versatility and continuing relevance in the literary world.
Additionally, van den Berg’s skill as a translator has seen him bring works by Wilbur Smith and Philip Kerr, among others, to Afrikaans-speaking audiences.
An Ongoing Literary Legacy
Now residing in Auckland, New Zealand, Zirk van den Berg continues to contribute to the literary landscape with works that reflect his unique experiences across continents.
His writing, deeply rooted in both South African and global contexts, resonates with readers for its authenticity and breadth. As he continues to write and publish, van den Berg remains a vital voice in both Afrikaans and English literature, bridging cultures and languages through his compelling stories.
His journey from Namibia to New Zealand, and the worlds he has created along the way, are a testament to the power of storytelling in transcending borders.
Books Written by Zirk van der Berg
I Wish , I Wish Parts Unknown Nobody Dies No-Brainer Half of One Thing
Social Media Pages Facebook : Click Here
