Fanie Viljoen, award-winning Afrikaans writer, artist and author, spoke to the Cannons Creek Independent School Grade 4-6 pupils on 7 May about some of his latest and most popular books. According to Fanie, sometimes you feel strange or different, and that is why he started writing books so that children and teenagers (among others) can identify with the characters in his books. There is something for everyone, from robots, monsters, a grandmother who is a troublemaker, a boy and a fly who swap lives, a variety of sports with magical animals, and so much more. Many of Fanie’s books are available in English and Afrikaans, which gives children the opportunity to improve their Afrikaans.

Fanie pointed out that books are like a holiday between the pages, adding that when it’s rainy and cold, it’s best to snuggle up under the blankets and read a book. In closing, Fanie said: “I hope one of these books will make you smarter, become an escape hatch, or become a mirror to see yourself.”

. Afrikaans Author Fanie Viljoen speaking about one of his books with much passion, luring the pupils in to want to read it.

Back row: Mrs Chene Marchand (Afrikaans Teacher), Liam Bester (Grade 5), Mr Fanie Viljoen, Ronan Potgieter (Grade 5). Front row: Bailey Swarts (Grade 4), Keira Nivison (Grade 4), Thayer Ramlal (Grade 6), Emma Hofmeyr (Grade 4) and Ronald Clarke (Grade 5).

. Fanie Viljoen poses with some of his books.

Fanie Viljoen poses with Grade 6 pupil Katherine Du Plessis and her autographed book