Child’s guide to knowing the virus
A HILLCREST mother tells the story about the virus in a book through the eyes of her 4-year-old daughter.
Shareez Bagaria’s debut book, Luna Learns About Viruses, is a story about Luna who feels unwell, goes to the doctor and the doctor explains she caught some kind of virus. The doctor also explains what the germs are and how to prevent the spread of germs and that the vaccine and medication also help to fight the different viruses.
Bagaria, a mother of two, said she always wanted to write but just didn’t know what the topic would be.
“Being in lockdown for such a long time I thought about what to write. Children’s books are easier and quicker to get out. I thought about the concept of the virus and what the kids go through. The protocols they go through at school is quite daunting so I decided to write something in simple English and use my daughter as the main character. Children at that age are so quirky and animated.”
Bagaria said Luna could now explain about the virus and told people to wear a mask, sanitise, wash their hands and to cough and sneeze into their elbows. “Our children teach us every day. You can learn from your children, no matter how old they are.
“The book also helps children to
not be afraid and that you will get better. The anxiety from that point is addressed. It conveys the message in simple words that rhyme.”
She said the book’s artwork was done by her niece, Giannna Naidoo, a Grade 9 pupil at Westville Girls’ High.
“She’s so talented. She captured Luna as real as possible so people can relate,” she said.
Bagaria, who has a background in human resources, said her late dad, who was a teacher, instilled reading in her. “Reading is knowledge and knowledge is power. And that is how we grew up. I’m glad that sparked something in me. I am now working on my second and third books also aimed at young kids and with an educational take.”
Bagaria said she was also having the book translated into isizulu. The book can be bought from www.madeinchatsworth.co.za for R175.