AWARD-WINNING book reviewer Karabo Kgoleng, who also made her name at SAfm as a talk-show host, has jumped ship.

Kgoleng has been poached by 702 Talk Radio and started hosting her first show this week. An excited Kgoleng confirmed to Sowetan that she was indeed part of 702.

"Yes, I can confirm that I am now with 702 Talk Radio, and I started my new show on Monday," she said.

The presenter, who until now was the face of books on SAfm, made a name for herself in literature with her incisive book reviews and sharp mind.

And for her effort she walked away with the prestigious South African Literary Award last year.

"I feel that this award has come rather too early. It would have been proper to win it in 10 years' time," Kgoleng said.

"I almost feel as if I have no challenge in radio literature.

"I could do with a bit of a challenge, quite honestly."

Remember what I said about her confidence, arrogance and lack of modesty before the literary awards last year?

"Often, black people are slow when it comes to embracing literature, an uncomfortable situation that is caused mainly by their disadvantaged financial position and low levels of literacy," she told Sowetan then in an interview after winning the SA Literary Award.

Just last week, she was also hired by City Press newspaper as their book reviewer.