Curro Century City rounds off Youth Month by celebrating 17-year-old published author. A Grade 12 learner from Curro Century City in Cape Town is still basking in the glory of becoming a published author after publishing his first book at the age of 17. Ameer Allie wrote The Kings Right Hand in just six months after his mum wouldn’t allow him to use social media. With nothing else to do with his time, Ameer put pen to paper and fashioned his fictional novel, which is set in the Middle East amongst two warring neighbouring countries.

The story follows the lead protagonist who is fondly regarded as the king’s right-hand man. Despite plenty of problems, he must make sure his country’s interests are protected, regardless of the costs. Ameer, who has been an avid reader from a young age, has dreamt of becoming a published author since he was very small, but his journey to becoming one, has been quite the page-turner.

“I am so pleased to finally be able to finish my book and still cannot believe I am a published author. I had the idea for this book nine years ago and would write drafts and drafts and give them to my dad to read and hound him for his comments before rewriting entire chapters again. It was not an easy process, but I have managed to see it through thanks to the amazing support of my parents and school. I guess my mom was onto something when she banned me from social media,” laughs Ameer.

To celebrate his fantastic achievement, Curro Century City recently hosted the book’s official launch. As well as proud parents, teachers, and members of the community, the successful event was also attended by renowned South African author Yusuf Daniels (Living Lekka and Living Coloured) and the Deputy Director of Economic Development and Tourism, Rashid Toefy.

“We are so proud to see Ameer persevere with his dream of becoming a published author. It is a phenomenal achievement at his age, and as a school, we are delighted to have been a part of his journey, giving him the space to explore his talents and realise his ambitions. It just goes to show that learners can achieve anything if they have the right people around them to support and encourage them,” says Colleen Bentley, Executive Head at Curro Century City. The Kings Right Hand by Ameer Allie is available to purchase on Amazon.