For the first time in its four years of existence, the Macondo Literary Festival set up a Kids Corner at the Kenya National Theatre in Nairobi, where the event was held. The kids’ event, held on 2122 September, was filled with excitement and anticipation from both the organisers and the children. The turnout was quite amazing, with up to 70 kids showing up.

From storytelling to reading books, drawing to painting, singing to dancing, and even puppet shows to learning how to drum, the kids could not contain their excitement. “I really enjoyed the book reading because there were many children, so we had time to interact with different schools; next time, when I’m invited to go to another event, I’ll be happy to be there,” said Angel Chari, a Grade Six pupil at Godreach Primary and Junior Secondary School.

The organisers of the kids’ event also ensured that they invited the best storytellers and authors of children’s books to entertain the young ones. The likes of Dr. Dino J. Martins, Muthoni Thang’wa and Wangari the Storyteller and her team were all there.

Entertainment

Children of all ages came together to be entertained by the storytellers, musicians and authors. The parents and teachers were not left behind; they immersed themselves in the show and even participated in most of the activities.

 “Although it’s written it’s a children’s corner, a lot of adults are spending so much time here and it shows that storytelling is not just for children; stories are what make us human and make us connect,” Wangari the Storyteller remarked.

In partnership with the authors and storytellers was Pocket Libraries, which ensured that the kids did not lack books to read, drawing papers and even bookmarks to decorate. It was also a learning experience for the kids as aspects of publishing work were brought up, so it was an opportunity to encourage them to start writing their own books at a young age.

Fun activities included face painting and puppet shows performed by Dr. Martins and his team, which illustrated the book he was reading. It was an amazing experience to not only hear the story being told but also see the illustrations, making it an engaging experience.

Emmanuel Jawar, a Grade Two pupil at St Joseph Catholic School, described the kids’ event as fun and said he couldn’t wait for the next one. He described his experience as one of the best; learning to play the drums was the greatest experience of his life.

Amazing food

The colourful kids event wouldn’t have been a success without some food to fill their hungry stomachs. Amazing snacks and drinks were put together to ensure the kids would eat free of charge.

Different cultures were also showcased as the storytellers engaged the kids in stories using both Kiswahili and English languages, while spicing up with a little of foreign and other African languages. The songs that were also taught depicted a deep sense of creativity and inclusiveness.

“It was such a wonderful experience for both pupils and teachers. We look forward to more of such great learning opportunities as they arise and we shall offer maximum support,” said Soita Juma, the head teacher of Godreach School.

The hope of parents is that there will be more children’s events coming up in the future. With that, we might as well get ready for a new set of young writers in the future.

Edith Temba is a correspondent for Books in Africa. Email: editemba5@gmail.com

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