Preserving Our Heritage Through South African Children's Books

Lori-Ann Preston
Sep 2
2 min read

Is it really such a big deal if our kids only read international books instead of South African children's books? I often hear the argument: “Well, children are reading, so that’s the goal, isn’t it?”

Let’s explore this further …

During my years of teaching, I longed for books by local authors who truly understood our culture. I didn’t want an international perspective that portrayed a South African kid walking the streets among lions (to be stereotypical). The children in my class played computer games, ate takeaways, and were witty, clever and cool. I wanted books that reflected their lives. Why? For a few important reasons:

1. Identity Matters

Children need to see themselves in books. Hearing, “Hey, that’s just like me!” is invaluable for building confidence. When children see their struggles and triumphs reflected in stories, they realise: If one kid can do it, so can I.

A man reads a red book to attentive children in a colorful classroom. Kids display curiosity and interest, sitting closely on the floor. — Children love characters that reflect their own experiences

2. Preserving our History and Traditions

Local books play a crucial role in capturing South African history, traditions and everyday life – Heritage Day, koeksisters (a classic), even loadshedding (urgh). These aspects of South Africa are worth celebrating and remembering.

3. Our Dialect and Humour

South African books reflect the way we speak, how our languages blend together, and our unique humour. Kids always laugh out loud when I share the example of a typical South African greeting: “Howzit, my bru?” That's something international books can't replicate.

Aerial view of a cityscape with a building featuring a large South African flag design. Tall buildings surround it. Sunny day. — The City of Johannesburg

4. Stories that Reflect our World

When I taught, I often read books like Horrid Henry to my class. My students loved the humour but didn’t always understand the cultural references. For example, I once had to explain what conkers is – a game played with chestnuts in the UK. It’s difficult for children to relate to something they’ve never experienced.

This is why local authors, illustrators and publishing houses are essential. They create heroes for South African kids, telling stories that empower them to dream big, celebrate diversity and support one another. By stocking school libraries and home bookshelves with South African children's books, we help our kids develop empathy and a stronger sense of identity.