Episode 7: Why We Need This Children’s Book About Apartheid

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In this episode I interview Xolisa Guzula, author and literacy scholar about her new book Together Apart: The Story of Living in Apartheid.

This is an important children's book. Yes, it’s been 30 years since Apartheid ended. And we still need to understand how it shaped South Africa in so many ways, both visible and invisible. Xolisa explains why she co-wrote this book now, with historian Athambile Masola (Ph.D) and how it can be shared with children to explain differences and promote caring and understanding.

I also talk about why getting children out of screens and into books is vital. With the Netflix series, Adolescence out, you need to know about the toxic Incel culture and what misogynistic voices our kids are exposed to. Let this series jolt you awake to become aware of what your children are consuming. And give them the love, support and safety they need at home to weather the truly difficult time of being a teenager in this crazy world. For support on this, contact Klik'd, a local company providing digital guidance to parents. 

Finally we review three proudly South African books for your little ones, to inspire their self-belief and confidence. Brave Like Me is a true story of braveness in the face of discrimination by Zulaikha Patel, the gorgeous All That I Am – A collection Of South African Poems and Songs is edited by Refiloe Moahloli and The South African Alphabet of Affirmations has powerful kid's affirmations in all 11 languages.

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6 Apr English South Africa Books · Kids & Family

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