F. Venter
F. Venter grew up in the semi-arid sheep-farming Karoo region of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. He matriculated in Kempton Park (Johannesburg East Rand), studied Humanities, and served in the SADF for 28 months. He spent most of his time reading and learning, also working as a permanent professional surf lifesaver and a temporary teacher. At 15, after his parents moved to the city, he apparently underwent a complete personality change. Previously a normal, happy child, he became withdrawn, quiet, and serious, developing a lifelong love of reading. His wife passed away in 2003. He currently lives on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth (Eastern Cape) near Sardinia Bay.