[WATCH] Rynfield author makes reading fun
Reading to children at various organisations, institutions and schools is something Michelle also enjoys.
Rynfield children’s author and illustrator Michelle Erwee is climbing the great heights of writing success and is encouraging parents to spend more time with their children by reading to them to improve literacy levels.
Michelle has been writing for approximately 10 years and has always had an interest in drawing inspiration from her surrounds and transcribing that onto paper.
“A lot of parents do not read to their children anymore and the magical experience of exploring a book is lost,” said Michelle.
“I try to incorporate that magical experience in my books by adding comedy for all ages to enjoy.
“Children also become more connected to parents when they page through a book.”
The mother of two said she regularly read to her children when they were younger and now the children read books on their own.
“Teachers reading to children is also key in enriching and equipping children with the fundamentals of literacy.
Michelle maintained that there is a book for every occasion.
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“Reading should be implemented into everyday life.
“You can read a book about hives of activity, such as exercising in the morning, and then a book about bedtime when it’s naptime.
“It’s critical that children read books in the languages they speak and write in to improve their language skills.
“Studies also show that reading a chapter of English and Afrikaans, or any core language the child engages in, before a mathematics class helps to stimulate the mind and positively contributes to problem-solving skills.”
Her first published book, How Adaze Saved The Rhinos, is the first about anti-poaching in an easy-to-understand fully illustrated series.
Michelle, who illustrated her own book, said the process of illustration is rather lengthy, but that it is a good way to channel her emotions and thoughts as it acts as a means of therapy and keeps her going.
She recently visited the Salvation Army and held a colouring in competition for children at the crèche aged between three and five years old.
Winner of the competition were awarded their own copy of How Adaze Saved The Rhinos, but not before she read to them and also donated a copy to the crèche.
“At times you feel everything has become so serious and children have lost their ability to smile and have real fun in a very serious world.
“My books are focused on empathy, sympathy and a great sense of humour.
“I want children to have fun again, especially by reading.
“Childhood is short, so I want them to get the most out it while they still can.”
For more information on Michelle’s work or to purchase a copy of her book contact her on 072 037 6062.
