A new children's book, "Masana the Brave: A Story About Growing Up," has been launched in South Africa to help young girls navigate the challenges of menstruation and puberty. The book, written by South African author Puno Selesho and illustrated by Gabby Correia, tells the story of a young girl named Masana who experiences uncertainty and complicated emotions when she gets her period. The book aims to open conversations about menstruation, puberty, and growing up, and to help young girls feel more confident and prepared for these changes.
Selesho was inspired to write the book based on her previous work with Lil-Lets on a social media campaign called Be You Period, which aimed to reduce stigma and silence around menstruation. She believes that traditional educational materials often fail to connect with young readers, and that storytelling can be a more effective way to make information about periods accessible and relatable. The book follows Masana's journey as she navigates her changing body and emotions, and shows young readers that even confident girls can struggle with complicated emotions during this time.
The book addresses common attitudes and cultural messages that can make menstruation a source of shame, such as the idea that getting one's period means one is no longer a girl or that menstruation makes one dirty or unclean. Selesho hopes that the book will give families a starting point for conversations about menstruation and puberty, and that it will help to reduce stigma and silence around these topics. She believes that by talking openly and honestly about menstruation, we can help young girls feel more confident and prepared for these changes.
The response from early readers and adults has been positive, with many mothers expressing a desire for a book like "Masana the Brave: A Story About Growing Up" when they were younger. Some fathers have also described the book as a useful starting point for conversations with their children. Selesho reflects on her own experience, saying that she would have wanted to know that menstruation did not mean the end of her childhood or freedom. She hopes that the book will inspire girls to see themselves as future writers, illustrators, and storytellers.
Selesho's goal is to make practical information about periods more accessible while encouraging conversations between parents and children, boys and girls, and young people themselves. She believes that by talking openly and honestly about menstruation, we can help to reduce stigma and shame, and promote a more positive and confident attitude towards these changes. The book is available at Exclusive Books stores nationwide and online.
The book has been well-received by parents and educators, who appreciate its honest and relatable approach to menstruation and puberty. Selesho's message is one of empowerment and confidence, encouraging young girls to see themselves as strong and capable, even in the midst of change and uncertainty. She hopes that the book will be a valuable resource for families and educators, and that it will help to promote a more positive and supportive attitude towards menstruation and puberty.
Through "Masana the Brave: A Story About Growing Up," Selesho aims to promote a more positive and confident attitude towards menstruation and puberty, and to encourage young girls to see themselves as strong and capable. She believes that by talking openly and honestly about these topics, we can help to reduce stigma and shame, and promote a more supportive and empowering environment for young girls to grow and thrive.
Key points
- The book "Masana the Brave: A Story About Growing Up" aims to help young girls navigate menstruation and puberty with confidence.
- The book addresses common attitudes and cultural messages that can make menstruation a source of shame.
- The book is available at Exclusive Books stores nationwide and online.
