Lungani Zungu
Dr Maud Mthembu said when writing stories for children, the context and setting of the story matter.
“This book tells a story from the perspective of a child from rural areas,” said Dr Mthembu, a lecturer at UKZN.
The book, written in IsiZulu about Covid-19 is titled Uhambo lwami ngesikhathi sekhovithi, which means, My journey during Covid-19.
It tells the story of Nsimu, a 10-year-old child whose family was affected by Covid-19 and the impact the disease brought on them.
She said children, including those from rural areas identify with the story.
“While fatalities among children are low, many have lost their caregivers or family members due to the virus,” she said.
“This book is appropriate for initiating Covid-19 related conversations with children and helping them express their experiences and feelings related to the loss using child-friendly language.”
Mthembu partnered with Lulisandla Kumntwana, an NGO from Mseleni, to distribute 400 books.
“It was well received by both children and teachers,” she said.
“We are grateful to the German Academic Exchange Service and Fachhochschule University for the financial support received to write the book,” said Mthembu.
The pandemic has led to the death of many significant people including King Goodwill Zwelithini, who died on Friday at the Chief Albert Luthuli Central Hospital.
