Author wants children to be their own superhero

of Superheroes by local author Zinhle Matthews uses the power of storytelling and the theme of superheroes not only to inspire, motivate and impart values to children, but also to help them access their own inner hero using the power of positive affirmations.

Originally released in English and written to be read by a parent or caregiver with a child, the book uses engaging illustrations and emotive language to tell a compelling yet accessible story of triumph over adversity.

“As a working mom I wanted to make it easier for other moms and caregivers to maintain a reading culture at home by providing an audio and video option where children can follow the narrator of the isiZulu book as it is read. I also understand that there are many children who may not have an adult to read to them, making this a useful tool to ensure that no child is left behind,” Matthews said.

When her book was first released, the author said “the greatest gift we can give our children is the ability to be their own superhero” and the goal has always been to offer that gift to as many children as possible.

The launch of My Family of Superheroes” in isiZulu is just the first step – Matthews plans to release the book in all South African languages and to duplicate the concept beyond the country’s borders.

The mother of two was taught the value of education by her own parents – retired teachers who have done tremendous work in their community – and wishes to pass that on to the next generation.

“It has been proven that a child’s mother tongue is the optimal language for literacy and learning at a young age. I want to contribute to the education

of young minds by not only promoting cognitive development and critical thinking through mother tongue reading, but by simultaneously cultivating children’s self-belief,” she said.

The dynamic and talented author’s vision is to “create a movement of self-belief in children through the power of positive affirmations”.

Complementing the release of the original book was an incredible duet performed by the talented Mmatema and Katlego Ntsele. Ke Nale Matla, meaning “I am strong, or I have the power” was written by Zinhle’s husband and talented songwriter, Ntuthuko Matthews.

The song – a Gospel chart-topper and regular feature on SABC – remains a valuable and relevant addition to the story, especially with the book now available in isiZulu.

Matthews lives in Midrand, Gauteng, with her husband and two children. She grew up in Bethal and, after completing her Honours in Accounting, she obtained a professional qualification as a chartered certified accountant through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

In addition to her successful career as a chartered accountant, Matthews has been finalising her second book and empowering primary school children through her school tours. She is also one of the faces of Tapputi Egyptian Perfume Oils and was crowned second princess at the “Supreme Queen Global Earth Africa” – a leadership platform that promotes social change and highlights causes that affect our continent – in November.

Determined to fulfil her life’s purpose, Matthews uses all the platforms available to her to ensure that children are equipped with the tools to be their own superhero.

My Family of Superheroes is an inspiring book with a powerful message which will resonate with children and caregivers. The book is available in English and isiZulu at Amazon, Ethnikids, Book Circle Capital and other selected bookstores.

To make it more accessible to a wider audience, the newly released isiZulu translation is accompanied by an audio-visual book. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=lVpvZescsmU

ZINHLE Matthews plans to release her book in all South Africa’s languages.