Author encourages reading of indigenous books
ALEXANDRA - AUTHOR and all-round creative encourages indigenous reading.
Vonisani Mabunda is an author and all-round creative who has more than 15 books published.
Mabunda has written poems and novels and had his work published by UNISA and some community newspapers. His latest book, Nwana wa Mbevha, was published in May and was well received.
The Limpopo-born author and law graduate is Tsonga, writes in English and Venda, and speaks nine of the eleven official languages.
“There’s a lack of indigenous writers and with Heritage Month people should be reading traditional books,” said Mabunda. He said that people could learn more about themselves through reading. Mabunda’s interest in writing started in high school.
“Knowledge is hidden in books and we need books that will tell authentic South African stories; stories of events that happen around us,” he said.
Mabunda said that one challenge is that people are not reading, and as a result a lot of bookshops have had to close down. “Reading can be stimulating for the mind and what better way to celebrate Heritage Month than reading indigenous books?” he concluded.
