About the author, Esnat Phiri
I grew up in Kamkuwe, a remote village in the rural area of Eastern Zambia near the border with Malawi. In those days there was neither television nor radio and the children's entertainment highlight was in the evenings after playing was finished. We listened in awe to stories related by parents, grandparents and village elders.
Bongwe stories are a combination of stories passed down from generation to generation in the oral tradition and of bedtime stories such as 'Bongwe and the Harvest' and 'Bongwe and his Conscience', which I related to my grandson, Luke. Luke really enjoyed the stories and encouraged me to write them down so that other children could enjoy them too.
The author gives live readings of Bongwe, with music, singing and participation by the children.
Bongwe and the Kingdom has been read at schools in Dorset, Surrey and Wiltshire and also at Sunday School.
The children at the schools were very enthusiastic and many wrote to the author to tell her that they wanted to hear some more stories:
"I can't wait to hear more of your great stories so that I can learn more about Zambia. I wonder if Bongwe will get into more mischief and trouble"
"The song was very interesting and it fitted well with the surrounding characters and what they were doing. We learnt from them that there is a country called Zambia in Africa"
"I would like it if you could come back again to our school because your stories are GREAT!"
To order Bongwe books, CDs and T-shirts, please visit our Order page.
50% of net royalties from sales will go to 'CONTESA' (Reg. Charity) providing shelter, food and education for orphans in Zambia.
