HONEYDEW – With two published books, Itumeleng Dithupe is on his way to becoming the writer he has always aspired to be.
The talented author and owner of Stuumarash production company has released his second book King Lion vs Jackal Enemies. The release comes a year after his first published book, Be The Boss of your Future.
King Lion vs Jackal Enemies, reflects on how certain people try to delay and derail progress and development. The lions and other animals in the book plan to create a dam once the seasonal rains fall but the jackals start to scheme on how they can benefit more than everyone else without having to put in the work.
Dithupe said, “The lion and other animals represent the people in society who want to provide development while the jackals represent those in society who oppose progress.”
The Honeydew resident expressed how his passion for writing stems from the beauty the African continent possesses.
“We have got a beautiful country and beautiful creations to tell the world about Africa,” he said.
He is also motivated by the importance of African writers telling their stories through their narratives and cultures. Dithupe, who has studied international screenwriting with the National Film and Video Foundation, advised young writers, “Tell our local stories and backgrounds as we experienced life differently.”
This is because we are all from different backgrounds and are unaware of the experiences of others, he said. This exchange of stories will allow people to explore the different strands of different cultures, from language to rituals to food.
The most recent book is ideal for learning and colouring in, as there are illustrations that parents and teachers can use to interact with children. Dithupe has planned to launch both books in December on the Hartbeespoort Dam. He plans to stick to the theme of water and nature by having it on a boat during the festive season.
For details on the books and the launch, contact Itumeleng Dithupe on mac.tumza@gmail.com; 079 943 6159.