‘Motherhood is not for me, because what if – like heart disease and haemophila – the ability to abandon one’s own children is hereditary? it’s not a risk I’m prepared to take.’ – Sara-Jayne King

Sara-Jayne King is British South African journalist and writer who has travelled the world in her quest for identity while working as a renowned journalist. Her memoir “Killing Karoline” is both heart-breaking and inspiring about a child born out an illegal relationship in the 1980’s who existence is effectively denied out of embarrassment and prejudices not confronted.

What becomes of a child whose existence is defined by shame? What does the reclamation of self look like when a pivotal figure in that self relegates your very existence to the annals of their deepest regrets?

These and some more poignant themes are covered in this powerful memoir. The themes of race, transracial adoptions, relationships and the subsequent traumas feature quite prominently in this memoir.

Sara-Jayne King writes honestly about the painful realities behind the “Kumbaya” moments associated with transracial adoption. In many ways Killing Karoline is a coming of age and identity as we watch Sara-Jayne grapple with micro-aggressions that so many Black women can relate to.

Sara-Jayne courageously writes about her struggles with her mental health in ways that feel honest but without dishonouring her truth.

We watch her confront her demons and in the process learn that sometimes healing is in the work.

On the first anniversary of her poignant memoir, “Killing Karoline.” Dr Alma-Nalisha Cele sat down with the ineffable Sara-Jayne King to discuss her memoir and the transcendental journey it has travelled near and far. This conversation is marked with an authenticity and honesty that is echoed throughout her memoir, the conversation was equal parts illuminating, humorous and thought-provoking. Killing Karoline is a powerful introspection on identity, reclamation of self and the questioning of things we hold true.