Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida is gearing up for the release of her second book.
Shudufhadzo authored her first book titled Shudu Finds Her Magic, which was a bestseller and published in six languages.
Her new book – I am Shudu, Finding My Voice, Knowing My Power – tells the story of her growing up in Limpopo, always being “the new girl” in school as she moved from different cities with her mother, and being bullied.
The book deals with the upsetting issue of bullying in a caring and practical way and inspires the child reader to embrace bravery, self-worth, and the importance of friendships.
Published by Jacana Media, the book is beautifully illustrated by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne.
Unlike the first book which targeted four- to eight-year-olds, her latest wonderful body of work is aimed at six- to 10-year-olds, to help them build confidence and independent reading, and transition from picture books to chapter books.
Shudufhadzo Musida said she is thrilled to share her story in the form of a book with the world, especially young children whom she hopes will draw inspiration from her story.
“I had an idyllic childhood in my formative years, with loving grandparents and suddenly moving cities would change my world and expose me to bullying, prejudice and various kinds of discomforts,” she said.
“I believe these are not just unique to me but a common scourge to younger people, and it affects their mental health.
“Some end up not wanting to go to school. With this book, I want readers to understand the power of their voice and [to] use it as a tool to shape the world around them.”
She hopes the book will spark conversations she wishes were had with her when she was young, and to help children who are being bullied and struggling with their mental health to find their power to speak out.
Shudufhadzo Musida will be travelling to stores across the country to meet up with children and sign their books.
