Local writer co-writes books with award-winning author

A Centurion resident and an award-winning author have joined hands to write a three-part children’s book.

Thuli George and author Jackie Phamotse co-wrote Liwa, a three-part book series about everyday challenges such as eating disorders, child abuse and bullying – something many children in South Africa face daily.

Liwa and Nomfie: Chasing Sunsets, Liwa and Noel, and Liwa oh, Mama it’s Red Apples will focus on one topic each.

George, a graphic designer and photographer from Rooihuiskraal, said she always wanted to be an author and was delighted to work with Phamotse on her first book.

“She is such an incredible writer,” said George.

“I think working with someone with her talent and experience really brought out the best in me as a writer and I’m very proud of what we have achieved.”

George said the topics were especially close to her heart as a mother of two daughters and she had used their names in the story.

“When you have children of your own, you become very passionate about these topics.

“They become a reality in your life and you realise that you have a responsibility to protect and look after them.”

Although the books are written for children, they also contain essential lessons for parents as well.

George and Phamotse also included early warning signs for the risks that parents should look out for in their children.

“Often parents are not aware of these things and we want to change that.

“We want parents to look out for warning signs and start investigating when they pop up.

“Children are often ashamed to admit they are being bullied. We want to change that and also encourage parents to notice when these things are happening, and the same goes for abuse within a community or family,” added George.

Phamotse is the god-parent to George’s daughters and that was the main reason the two decided to collaborate.

Both of them also realised it was difficult to find books for children five and younger on these topics.

Phamotse and George did a lot of research before writing and consulted teachers.

“We knew we had to be very careful about how we approached writing these books, especially when it came to the type of language we used,” said Phamotse.

They also spoke with caretakers at children’s shelters as part of their research to gain a better understanding of what children in those environments faced.

One way of making the books more engaging was including suggested letters the children could write to their teachers when they are battling with these issues.

The books are available for purchase at bookstores nationwide.

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