Looking for some great books to motivate reading? Here are a handful of fabulous kiddies reads (with giveaways) written by local authors that will open the doorway to turning your little one into a voracious reader.
My Family of Superheroes
“Every child, irrespective of gender or race, will find themselves in situations that test their self-confidence and courage,” says author Zinhle T. Matthews. “Wouldn’t it be amazing if they had a fool-proof, lifelong tool to use in these circumstances? A potent mantra which could lift them above self-doubt and fear into a position of power, well equipped to take on the world – and win!”
Her beautifully illustrated book, My Family of Superheroes, focuses on how positive phrases can help children realise their inner strength and potential. It tells the story of Precious who, inspired by her mother, uses positive affirmation to overcome her insecurities and doubts. The book is available at Amazon, Ethnikids, Book Circle Capital and other selected bookstores and is set to be translated into various languages, and to be converted into an audio book. Details: FB: Zinhle Superheroes IG: @myfamilyofsuperheroes
Luna Learns About Viruses
Learning about the coronavirus and coping with lockdown has been overwhelming for us all, especially children. With this in mind, Hillcrest mother of two, Shareez Bagaria, used her spare time to write about viruses, as she educated her curious children Luna (4) and Shay (11). Her handwritten notes have been turned into an exciting book titled, Luna Learns About Viruses.
Aimed at the foundation phase age group, the book is written in a simple rhyming style, is easy to read and remember and is designed to be both a teacher’s aid and a parental guide. The book’s big, bold, beautiful illustrations are the artwork of Shareez’s niece, Gianna Naidoo. The book is also being printed in isiZulu. It can be bought online at www.madeindurban.co.za for R175 and delivery is free across South Africa.
Gone Little Cat
Gone Little Cat is Blythedale author, Gustav Preller’s fifth book. But it’s his first for children. Aimed at 10 to 15-year-olds, the book (which tells the story of a highly-pedigreed, pampered cat who gets lost in a forest and has to learn to live in the wild) has been very well received by both children and adults who’ve been the storytellers to little ones. All the animals in the story have names and personalities. They all talk and the dialogue is great! Their very existence is threatened by powerful predators … humans … and the animals embark on a fateful course of action. While the environmental theme of deforestation is contemporary and relevant, Gone Little Cat is also about growing up, understanding that one doesn’t have to be the same to be friends and, through courage and resilience, finding one’s self in a world that contains both good and bad. It’s beautifully illustrated by a Kenyan artist, David Wachania, the book is available at all Ballito book stores and most book stores nationwide for R195.
