Simon Burrow writes this book review from his home in Menerbes, somewhere in the Luberon Valley – Provence.

Long ago when men were men, ladies were ladies and journalists were real wordsmiths, Normal Canale was at his peak.

In a career spanning five decades, Canale was a pioneer tabloid journo. Expert in rugby and boxing (he called it the ‘sweet science’), in particular, Norman Canale sold newspapers. Canale lived with the characters, he ate and breathed them. He drank with them.

‘Snakes in the Garden of Eden’, Canale’s autobiography just published by Don Nelson in Cape Town is a glorious read. The first half of the book chronicles his colourful life, his many wives, friends and – predictably, enemies.

We read about the legendary Cape Times Sports Editor, Dick Stent mocking up the back page on the Cafe Royal bar counter along with a gin and tonic. The iconic Sunday Times editor Joel Mervis comes back to life in the pages.

The second half of the book presents a few of Canale’s great articles. The one on Springbok prop Boy Louw is a gem.

Co-founder of the South African Sports Illustrated magazine, reporter on the Cape Times, Sunday Times, Sunday Express, Rand Daily Mail and more, Canale live life to the full.

As a young cadet, I asked then Cape Times Managing Editor Chris Greyvenstein why he only drank lime juice and soda at the Cafe Royal. “I used to drink with Norman Canale” was his answer! Enough said.

Get this book and read it. It’s available at leading South African bookshops and through the publishers, Don Nelson.

Footnote: One sour note. In the article on Rod Laver, the Rocket is listed as an American. Norman – you should know: Melbourne Sports Park’s main arena is called Rod Laver Arena for a reason – he’s an Aussie!

*Catch more of Simon Burrow, as he contemplates his next glass of rosé, direct from Provence, at www.livingstylishlywell.com