Author and community education specialist Kayleigh Huysamen is inspiring young conservationists, one page at a time.
If you’ve ever packed up the family for a bush break or a long weekend in the great outdoors, you’ll know the joy of seeing your kids light up at the sight of an elephant or the call of a hornbill. But imagine if you could bottle that excitement, pair it with beautifully illustrated books, and sprinkle in a little conservation magic? That’s exactly what Kayleigh aims to do with Wild Kids Books.
Kayleigh, a mum of three, started the project during her family’s home schooling journey when she couldn’t find fun, South African-centred books for her children. Living on a farm in Zululand and surrounded by wildlife, she took matters into her own hands. Her first series, Sophia’s Safari:
An African Animal Alphabet, follows her children as they explore the bushveld, learn about local animals from A to Z and discover why protecting our wildlife matters.
And because siblings are never far behind, new books quickly followed. Asher’s Survival Guide and Camping Cookbook joined the range, and little Isla-Mae got her own imaginative rhyming series. Add to that a set of engaging field guides (including a Kruger version for bush-bound families and even a marine one for coastal holidays), and you’ve got a treasure trove of learning tools disguised as delightful adventures.
For North Coast families who love a good road trip to the bush or simply want to bring a bit of nature into their homes, these books are a gem. They’re not just educational – they’re genuinely fun. Think animal checklists, sticker activities and stories that spark big conversations about the natural world.
Kayleigh’s background in ecology and conservation runs deep – from childhood visits to Kruger to earning her Master’s Degree in the field – and it’s clear she’s poured that passion into every page. “True conservation starts with connection,” she says. “If children learn to value our wildlife from a young age, they’re far more likely to grow into adults who protect it.”
While Kayleigh may be tucked away in the heart of Zululand, her books are available for delivery across the country – including right here on the North Coast. They’re also available from CAP Kids in Ballito, and will soon be stocked in more stores locally.
Keep an eye out for her upcoming projects too – including a conservation-themed board game and a new endangered species range with magnets, tote bags and more. Kayleigh’s mission is simple but powerful: to nurture the next generation of conservation champions, one book at a time.
Details: wildkidsbooksa.mailchimpsites.com;
IG: @wildkidsbookssa
