How many people can truly say that they know the history of the city in which they live? It is true to say that for most of us who live in Johannesburg, the rich political and social history, and the many fascinations of the city, remain hidden. In "Johannesburg Portraits" Mike Alfred tells the story of Johannesburg through the lives of a group of prominent Johannesburg citizens both living and dead. The people featured, from Lionel and Florrie Phillips through to Philip Tobias, Lionel Abrahams and Sibongile Khumalo, have all lived through stimulating, often turbulent times. And every one of them has contributed, and continues to contribute, to Johannesburg's cultural heritage. Every story tells the reader as much about the city's geography, its economic, political and social history, as it does about each vibrant personality.