Nathi Ngubane received hateful messages on social media after publishing a book on Palestine.
Palestine colouring book by South African author Nathi Ngubane From the river to the seaIt sold over 10,000 copies.
“We are extremely grateful for the unwavering support from parents, independent bookshops, teachers, children and activists, despite the backlash and insults from the Zionists,” Ngubane said. Citizen.
Ngubane was bombarded with hateful messages on social media after publishing his book.
Some of the messages he received included people wanting to buy the books to use as toilet paper.
“The government is trying to get the government to take a more proactive stance,” said Adam Charnus, an analyst with the South African Board of Jewish Deputies (SAJBD). Citizen At the time, they said they respected different political views and policies, but felt the book was “a shame for children to be drawn into further political politics.”
Some Exclusive Books stores have removed the book from their shelves, and the retailer issued a statement defending its sale in some stores.
Ngubane said he was pleased with the sales of the book.
“Selling over 10,000 copies in less than six months has exceeded our expectations. Palestinian content deserves a place on our shelves and we will continue to stand up for oppressed people around the world,” Ngubane said.
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Selling like hotcakes
The sale of the book was announced by its publisher, Social Bandit Media, an organization that produces educational materials.
Social Bandit Media has Durban-based Baitul Hikmah Islamic Books and Gifts as its distribution partner for the book.
“As a small bookstore, this is our biggest single title sale to date. Huge congratulations to Nati on this amazing achievement!”
Ngubane previously worked with Social Bandit Media on Duma saysa book about people living in informal settlements during the COVID-19 pandemic, teaches young readers how to avoid infection.
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The power of art
Ngubane said the book's success demonstrated the effectiveness of art as an education and communication tool.
“Especially in a world where many struggle with reading, visuals help people connect and express emotions when words fail,” the authors assert.
“Art has the power to move people, inspire them, and help them imagine a different world. It is a vital medium for communicating our fears, our resistance, our concerns, and our moments of pride.”
“We believe that by teaching children about apartheid, the Nakba, the Intifada and solidarity, we can develop a natural sense of activism from an early age,” Ngubane said.
From the river to the sea It is now translated into French.
“I am very happy that the book has been translated into French and I hope it will be published in more languages so that this message can reach people far away. I also hope to travel abroad to discuss human rights and Palestine.”
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