Story of a woman of substance

THE book Graça’s Dream reflects Graça Machel’s goal of instilling a love of reading in African children.

The book was inspired by Machel, an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights.

Author Melissa Fagan said the book came about as Book Dash gathered writers, illustrators, book designers and editors in one room to produce printready children’s books in just 12 hours.

“We creatives were tasked with producing 10 biographical stories about inspirational African women,” she said.

The story follows Machel’s upbringing and her school years, and tells of her dream of becoming a teacher and instilling the joy of reading and studying in the children of her country, Mozambique.

Machel won a scholarship to attend a university in Portugal.

Later, after her studies, she returned to Mozambique armed with her education, skills and hope, as well as the support of friends who believed in children’s right to learn, to bring about change.

“Graça Machel’s story is inspirational – from humble beginnings in Mozambique she went on to help her country gain independence and significantly raised the literacy level of its children in her first two years as minister of education and culture. She was passionate about sharing her love of books and learning with her people,” said Fagan.

“This story speaks to me on such a personal level – it’s the reason I volunteered to be part of Book Dash. South Africa’s own reading culture and literacy stats need to change.”