This week’s author spotlight on Sistah’s Place is with Thembi Ntahane KaMahlangu. Her book is titled He Saw The Storm released on July 29, 2020. Thembi will give you the opportunity to learn a little about her and what inspired her journey to become a writer. Sit back and enjoy our author spotlight Q&A with Thembi Ntahane KaMahlangu all the way from South Africa.
Tell us who is Thembi Ntahane KaMahlangu?
I am a writer, author, and poet from Mpumalanga South Africa. I started writing when I was in primary school where I was a part of a reading and writing club. I write short stories, but recently released my debut novel He Saw The Storm. I also write poetry while contributing writer to various publications including Woman Scream and Hibiscus Poems that heal and empower, Yoni. When I am not writing I am in class teaching science. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education at the University of Witwaters and in 2019. As a ferocious reader, I enjoy breathing in the fresh air while chasing the wind.
What was it that made you decide to write a book?
I’ve always known that I wanted to become a published author one day but my stories were not raw enough to qualify for a novel in my judgment. It was not until I had a conversation with my grandmother about cultural practices that were practiced by my tribe in the past that I thought this is a story that the world is waiting to receive. Then I decided to write a book.
What inspired your book title?
This book is a fiction book; the title was inspired by the climax of the story. How the climax is predicted in the beginning of the story. However, it is suggested rather than fully laid out.
Without giving too much away, tell us what He Saw The Storm is about?
The book tells the story of a widow who goes into marriage to another man who is also a widower, taking her child from outside the marriage with her. After a year of trying for a baby, she discovered that she could not have children because of a certain disease, then the husband took the daughter for a second wife so that she could give him children.
Is there a message you like readers to walk away with after reading He Saw The Storm?
Yes, there is. Culture is not set in stone; it adapts to change and evolves over time therefore holding on to irrelevant cultural practices just for the sake of it is oppression.
What makes your book stand out from all the rest in your genre?
The richness in African culture, originality, this book is telling an authentic African story from an African point of view, in an African way.
What is next for you as an author?
This is the first of many books to follow. I am already working on a sequel for He Saw the Storm.
Who are some of your favorite authors and why?
My favorite authors are Dan Brown: His writing is rich in history and art education. I like how evokes the writer’s emotions through words. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Her African way of storytelling and the truth in her writing. Jackie Phamotse: Her bravery of telling real stories through fiction.
Did you learn enough about Thembi? If not, visit her website and connect with her on social media to learn more about who she is and stay on top of her future projects. Don’t’ forget to pick up your copy of He Saw The Storm on amazon.
Social Media Handles and Website:
I.G www.instagram.com/thembintahanekamahlangu
www.facebook.com/thembintahanekamahlangu
Website
thembintahanekamahlangu.wordpress.com
Where to buy :