October is national book month, a month-long celebration that focuses on the importance of reading, writing, and literature. National Book Month is also a time to honor the country’s best books and authors. Grade 5 pupils at Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School Ellamae Bayer and Mary Botha are writing a book. The book is about two 16-year-olds who live normal lives on top of being detectives. Secrets are uncovered, mysteries are waiting to be solved and secret passages to be found in their thrilling story.
The state of literature is rather saddening in South Africa, the General Household Survey (GHS) conducted by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) showed about 2.6 million people in South Africa have some or a lot of difficultly reading or are unable to read. National book month advocates inspiring children even adults to start reading books, not just any books but local books.
Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School librarian Jenny Wates said, “I’m very proud of our girls, so often we teach children the craft of writing and they don’t realize that there is a real audience they have to write for and I think once they learn that and they start experimenting with their own writing then they know that how difficult it is, to be the author, editor, and publisher.” One of the past pupils at Rustenburg Girls’ junior School Emma Chambers who is a published author of her two books named Trixie the Pixie – The adventure begins and the seven scrolls is an inspiration for Mary and Ellamae.
“We both love literature, writing, and reading and playing with phrases is just awesome for me,” said Ellamae. “Creative writing is a gift, I guess. Sometimes, when I start writing, the words just flow like a waterfall and I can’t stop it,” said Mary. They have dedicated the book to their grandparents because they both lost them to cancer. The book is for children aged 9 and up. They are aiming to finish it by the middle of next year. One of the challenges they faced was juggling normal life and writing. They made schedules, so they could write the book as well as complete homework and study for exams. “The idea came about because I have loved writing for a long time and I went up to Mary and asked, ‘Do you want to write a book together?’ That question turned into months of writing. We sat and brainstormed,” said Ellamae. Their message to other young writers is to follow your heart and enjoy yourself while doing it because it can be a lot of fun.
Their teacher Keanan Wagner said: “I am impressed with their writing skills and proud of their hard work and dedication. We need young writers. We look forward to the finished book.” The girls recommend their peers to read The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer to celebrate National Book Month.
ENDS.
About Rustenburg Girls’ Junior School
Rustenburg Girls’ Junior is a beautiful school in the heart of Rondebosch. Although we cherish the traditions of our long history, our girls are provided with an excellent 21st century academic, sporting, and cultural programme. The school is a happy, vibrant, and caring place and has a strong sense of purpose. Learning is important! The knowledge and skills learnt in the classroom are linked to the life lessons learnt during sport, music, cultural and community service activities. Teamwork, dedication, hard work, respect, consideration, and compassion for those less fortunate are some of the values we hold dear. Our girls are encouraged to develop thinking, problem solving and research skills and to reach their unique potential. There is something for everyone at Rustenburg and the girls embrace the opportunities provided. They are enthusiastic, energetic, and excited by each new experience.
For more information please contact:
Marketing and Communications Officer
Thapelo Phukuje
Mobile: 079 425 4914
Tel: 021 689 1981
Fax: 021 686 7106
