An Afrocentric bookstore in vibrant Melville
MELVILLE – "We also have stories to share with the world," says owner of an Afrocentric book store.
A space that promotes African literature and writers exists in the heart of the neighbourhood.
It is a known fact that 27 Boxes in Melville has some pretty impressive and unique stores and Book Circle Capital is no exception.
The bookstore has been based in Melville since March this year and hosts interactive book readings for children.
What makes this bookstore extra special is the type of books it focuses on.
Owners of the Book Circle Capital, Sewela and Loyiso Langeni wanted to create a space that promoted African literature.
Sewela said, “Mainstream bookstores are only changing now because they can see the demand for African literature.
Before, they used to have one shelf for African literature in a corner somewhere.
We wanted to create a space dedicated to African literature and writers.”
When asked about the quality of literary work coming out of the African continent, Sewela said, “The benchmark is well and high for future writers. There is deep-rooted content coming out of Africa and there is content for everyone.”
Apart from the educational and entertaining book readings hosted for children, the Langeni’s have invited authors to come and discuss their work.
Authors Cynthia Jele and Dudu Busani-Dube have discussed their books and plans are to invite others such as Fred Khumalo.
They also invite book clubs to come in and have their book discussions in this Afrocentric environment.
The Langeni’s are both avid readers. Loyiso gravitates towards political and current affairs while Sewela goes for African fiction such as the work of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
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