Standard 4 Phakalane pupil, 9, publishes her first book
A standard four pupil at Phakalane Primary School, Lone Moepswa is proving that age is just a number that can’t prevent one from realising one’s dreams. The nine-year old has published her first book, ‘The Family Dolphin: The Dolphin’s sparkling necklace.’ An avid reader who likes British novelist Roald Dahl, Lone, like many children, struggled with comprehending and the meaning and purpose of a story. But after reading a biography about Dahl and his writing process, she became interested in that process herself, according to her parents. “When you read you are able to become a better writer,” Lone said in an interview recently. “It helps you find your true passion, which in my case is to become an author.” And through that, the Moepswa’s saw a way to help their daughter understand the mechanics behind stories and even help her develop a better reading comprehension. “We started off by writing short stories at home and the different aspects of writing such as developing a plot. When we heard about the Kids writing workshop at Honeycomb Hub, we knew it would be perfect for her”, said her father, Tirelo Moepswa. The eight week course aims to teach children to brainstorm and develop their ideas into stories. “Lone wrote every word from beginning to end. Of course, we do some copy editing… but as far as the order of the book, the plot, what’s going to happen, what Ella is going to say, the days of the week, that’s all her,” explained Honeycomb Hub Co-Founder, Abigail Burkett. Lone had a writing journal that she used to write down her ideas and draw pictures which slowly formed her book. She also attended weekly sessions with other children where they read their work to one another and provided feedback and encouragement. And the Moepswa’s are excited to see their daughter accomplish her goal as they hope this inspires other kids too. “It has been quite fascinating to see her put together her story. Some people keep dolphins as pets, but her imagination allowed her to create a world where a baby dolphin can keep a pet as well. And the imperfections are the best part about her book,” Moepswa added. “Not criticising children and allowing them to create something that is really theirs, we believe, is the best way for them to express themselves and connect with their peers”. Lone’s story is about a family of dolphins. Ella’s mother, who is ill tells Ella that her father is missing. Armed with a sparkling necklace her mother gave her, good friends and her pet fish, the brave baby dolphin goes on an adventure to find her father. As for his daughter’s future as a writer, Moepswa said he thinks she will continue to write. “We hope she continues to work hard towards all of her dreams”. Lone is on the same page as her father when it comes to pursuing her efforts as an author. “I want to continue to write. The most exciting part about becoming an author is that now everyone is reading my book but most importantly learning from it and that makes me happy, “she said. She plans to join the spring session of the Honeycomb Wood Young writers club and maybe write a book in Setswana next.The Family Dolphin: The Dolphin’s sparkling necklace is available on Amazon.