“The Adventures of Shiv and Arya”: a new children's book on patience and identity
Shanrica Ganesh of Umhlatuzana launched her debut children’s book, The Adventures of Shiv and Arya: Arya Learns the Value of Patience at the recent Eduvos Durban International Book Fair.
The author sees this as the beginning of a series aimed at encouraging emotional intelligence and cultural representation among South African children.
The story explores the timeless lesson of patience, especially for children learning to navigate feelings of disappointment when told “no.”
“Patience is a lifelong journey,” said Ganesh.
“It’s something even adults struggle with. This book helps children understand that when a parent or loved one says no, it often comes from a place of care and wisdom, not malice.”
The inspiration for Ganesh’s work is deeply personal. While searching for books for her toddler niece and nephew, she was struck by the lack of children’s literature depicting Indian characters.
“This lack of representation leaves our children without a sense of belonging or connection to the stories they read.”
Through The Adventures of Shiv and Arya, Ganesh aims to bridge this gap. She hopes the book will not only teach important life lessons but also give children the gift of seeing themselves reflected in the stories they love.
“Representation in children’s literature is powerful. When kids see themselves in the characters and storylines, it builds a foundation of self-worth and pride in their identity. It also shows them that their dreams and aspirations are attainable.”
Ganesh’s passion for empowering young readers extends to encouraging parents to be more mindful of the content their children consume.
“Parents are juggling so much, but it’s important to step back and choose books that not only entertain but also empower.”
With its engaging storytelling and culturally relevant themes, Arya Learns the Value of Patience is more than just a book; it’s a celebration of South African Indian identity and a call for more inclusive narratives in children’s literature.
* The Chatsworth launch of the book will take place on Sunday, December 15, 12.30pm at the community market at Depot Road Primary School in Bayview. For information, call the author at 063 662 0936.