AUTHOR Makwena Manamela has penned a fictional children's book titled Tiseke.
This is Makwena's first illustrated children's book about Tikesele, who wants to become a journalist.
The book is fictional, and Tisekele Kasambala inspired it.
"Tiseke is a smart seven-year-old African girl growing up in a city, who knows who she is. She narrates her life story to her peers and adults, providing details of the origins of her circle as well as her maternal and paternal family. This is the realisation of her place on earth and desire to be accepted as she is," Makwena said.
"She tells her story in a colourful manner, complimenting the rich illustrations inspired by her everyday African city, rural life and surroundings. The book addresses issues of discrimination, such as Afrophobia and xenophobia, which impact negatively on children, particularly in Africa," she said.
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The editor for this book is Tlou Legodi, and Sharon Sibanyoni illustrates it while David Robbins Proofread it. It was published this year and will hit the shelves later in October.
"I wrote it during the Twitter war between Zimbabweans. It had hit me that conflicts between our generation are affecting our children negatively, especially psychologically as they're little sponges that observe and copycat what they witness.
"The book seeks to educate kids about Africa's political and social complexities. This is more than just an illustrated book. It's also a campaign against various forms of discrimination faced by children," she said.
She said she hopes it reaches children across the African continent and globe, especially those born in families with immigrants, different nations and cultures.
"My hope is for adults to gift the little ones in their lives with a copy, especially in kasis and underserved rural communities or donate it to local centres, libraries, and schools. The book is already selling at R350," she said.
