WATCH: Authors of all ages given a platform at Bennies Book Fayre
"Hundreds of members of the public came to the fair and enjoyed interacting with the authors, asking questions as well as buying their books and getting them signed and dedicated," said Jann Weerantunga from SRRS.
St Benedict’s College and Schools Reading Road Show (SRRS) hosted the Bennies Book Fayre on March 14.
Jann Weeratunga, SRRS chief coordinator, said they were proud to host 57 amazing authors from Cape Town, the Eastern Cape, Bloemfontein, Durban and Johannesburg.
She said nearly 60 authors, including 10 child authors under the age of 18, gathered for the biggest children and young adult book fair in South Africa.
The fair included workshops, an activity area, demonstrations, panel discussions, a chatterbox, a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, dress-up competition and a reading corner.
“We had 100 learners arrive from three schools in Freedom Park, sponsored by Umtunzi, St Benedict’s College and the SRRS,” said Jann.
Jann added that the learners were transported to St Benedict’s Prep, treated to a day of books and lunch and sent home, each with their own book donated by authors.
“It was an incredible day and satisfying for everyone involved. We’ll be back for the next one, which no doubt will be bigger and better in 2021,” said Jann.
Twelve-year-old author of Finding Her Father Iyanda Jako said she was nervous yet excited about attending the book fair.
“Even though I have nerves, I know everyone will love my book,” said Iyanda.
Teenager and author of The Adventures of Malawi Tshiano Noko was also happy to be part of the Bennies Book Fayre.
“I expect the fair to be very interesting and I am especially excited to interact with other child authors,” said Tshiano.
Edenvale author Richard Edwards held a workshop on his book Puzzle Train, which is about an 11-year-old boy who participates in a game show.
Tevin Blignaut, author of We Need Your Purpose, also held a workshop on his book, where he discussed the concept of purpose and principles of success.
Jann is also the author of the Polly’s Piralympics series and, with Lerato Tefo, author of The Search for Happiness, participated in the reading corner, where they read their books to eager learners.
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