Dr Poppy Bhengu penned Dear Girl Child as she navigated her own journey of healing. The former Springs Girls’ High School learner has published her second book, dedicating it to her daughters and to girls everywhere.
“I want it to be something they can keep as a guide or a source of comfort, even when I’m no longer with them or around them. I also wanted it to be something they could pass on to their own daughters one day,” explained Bhengu.
Her first book is Fit to be a Modern Makoti.
“After losing my mom, Thandi Mahlangu, I realised the importance of unspoken conversations, words, and topics I wish we had discussed but never really got to. I know many women and young girls can relate to that.
“In many ways, this book became very close to my heart because it allowed me to express and explore the things I would have loved to hear from my mother – the things I wish we had spoken about more, even though we did have many meaningful conversations.
“I also recognise that not every girl has a mother. Some are raised by guardians, relatives, or even on their own. This book is written to be a mother’s voice to those girls too, offering wisdom, comfort, and a sense of belonging that they can carry with them and one day pass on in their own lives,” she added.
Bhengu said she started writing the book shortly after beginning her PhD in early 2023.
“Writing became an outlet for me, especially when I felt frustrated with my studies. I tackled the book one chapter at a time. It was published in February,” she said.
Bhengu said she also hopes parents use the book as a tool to open up and have important, sometimes uncomfortable, conversations.
“Readers will find something to relate to, some answers to the questions they carry, and the motivation to keep going even when life gets tough. Most importantly, they’ll be reminded that their pain is valid, and that we hear them,” she concluded.
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