Walking proud: The Louis Luyt autobiography

Born on the wrong side of the tracks in a dusty town in the Karoo during the Depression, Louis Luyt's impoverished childhood was tainted with gossip and deprivation. But it was here, amid these humble beginnings, that the barefoot farm boy was to learn some of his greatest lessons - the value of family, the importance of self-respect and the need for decency and honour. 

The young Louis seemed to have the Midas touch, but while he enjoyed the fierce support of his family and associates and widespread recognition for his philanthropy, success brought with it a measure of criticism. here, in his definitive autobiography, Luyt boldly explores some of the most controversial issues that have peppered his colourful career.

• The rise and fall of Triomf, the fertiliser giant.
• The emergence of Luyt Lager and his clash with SAB.
• His involvement in The Citizen newspaper and the Information Scandal.
• The feuds with leading businessmen, politicians and sportsmen. 
• Squaring up against ex-President Nelson Mandela.
• The triumph of the 1995 World Cup - and the disappointment that followed.

Here, too, is the story behind his battles with the nation's rugby administrators, his clandestine meetings with exile ANC leaders,  his foray into politics, as well as anecdotes of his encounters with celebrities Francis Ford Coppola, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.

While he admits that these life experiences have taken their toll - most notably on his family and his health, they have also helped  weave a rich tapestry that has contributed enormously to a life well-lived. Never one to hold back, this is the larger-than-life story of Louis Luyt - in his own words.