Matthys Gerhardus Smith
Matthys Gerhardus Smith (1914-1985) was a South African Fictional writer, mostly known for youth literature. He has written mainly under the nom de plume “Topsy Smith” and “Bettie Naude” Roots and private life. He was born in Parys, Free State, South Africa on 12 July 1914. He was the son of Matthys Gerhardus Smith and Elizabeth Catharina Naude. He married Josie Stuart-Bertram. They had 2 children. He died on 5 March 1985. Education and work. Smith obtained a BA degree at University of Stellenbosch and later a Higher Diploma in Education at the University of  Pretoria. He was a teacher and retired as principal of Sandringham Primary in Johannesburg. Writer. - "Bosapies van Bergville" (translated: Apes from the bush from Bergville) – Twelve books (1958-1959) - "Hendrik Hoffman"– Six books (1959-1960) - "Louws van Linton" (translated Louws from Linton) –Eight books (1960-1964) - "Gampietjie" –Five books (1963-1964) - "Jantjie" – Six books (1963-1967) - "Nicky" – four books (1958) - "Leon" –four books (1963-1969) - "Juffrou Jackie se man" (1970) (translated: Miss Jackkie’s husband) - "Die ontluiking van tant Matilda" (1971) (translated: Aunt Matilda’s change) - "Blonde godin" (1980) (translated: Blonde goddess) - "Ons Springbok-rugbyspelers en Tokkelossie" (1946) (translated: Our  Springbok rugby players and the spirit of our forefathers) - "Atlete van Springbokland" (1950)(translated: Athletes from South Africa