Be transported to a world of fantasy at the SA Festival of Children’s Literature

Yaseen Gaffar

The 2nd and only SA Festival of Children’s Literature in the country, hosted by Heartlands Baby Sanctuary in Somerset West, takes place from 20 to 22 May.

Last year Heartlands hosted over 60 authors, making it among the greatest Literary Festivals in South Africa.

The event has a dual purpose: to create awareness about Heartlands and strive to generate funds the duration of the festival, and to glorify children’s literature – authors, illustrators and traditional storytellers.

One of the drivers behind this festival is Darryl Earl David, the only Indian lecturer of Afrikaans in SA best-known for being the founder of Book Town Richmond (equivalent of Hay-on-Wye), the only book town on the African continent, and of SA’s Mural Town, and he’s the most experienced curator of book festivals in SA.

He says literary festivals are a way to connect with like-minded people who enjoy a good book and the creative scene, and who also appreciate hidden gems in the world of art and theatre.

“It is an excellent opportunity for children to be inspired by some of SA’s award winning authors as well as find out more on how to be published, or become a publisher, a children’s illustrator or become a mesmerizing storyteller”.

David adds that last years event was constrained due to Covid regulations but the interest showed exceeded their wildest expectations.

“Last years’ event was fully online and this year we have a hybrid event, and over 90% of the authors will attend the festival in person,” he said. “We’ve also included children’s entertainment, face painting, jumping castles, candy-floss and everything that children really like as they are our target audience. There’ll also be mascots of different book characters interacting with kids. These will be some of the main differences between last years event and this year’s.”

David said every session will be a treat, and award winning authors are just as excited.

“The reason we’re going face to face is that we want children and their parents to interact with the authors, take their photo, get a signed book, and this is what it’s all about,” he said.

The event will be held at Heartlands Baby Sanctuary from 10:00 to 16:00 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All Covid protocols will be observed. Only R50 per day, children under 10 free. Children to be attended by adults at all times. There will be no ticket sales at the gate, so bring your Quicket ticket along.

Heartlands Baby Sanctuary is situated at 794 Old Paardevlei Road, The Interchange, Somerset West, and can be contacted on 021 852 3527.

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