A HORSE’S MOM ISN’T ALWAYS A HORSE e-book

The little horse’s mom was drier than the Kalahari desert on the hottest day of the hottest month. She did not have a drop of milk. The farmer had to make a difficult decision – one that would change the little horse’s life forever…

He was immersed in a strange new world where things did not make sense to him at all: pink, overweight animals who snorted; birds who could not fly and the fear that adolescence might be contagious! Time did stand still. The little horse was forced to face the unknown. He learnt to adapt and found his belonging space in an unlikely place, only to realise that a horse’s mom, isn’t always a horse…

 

not only is this a beautifully illustrated e-book with 10 activity pages that you can enjoy with your child, but also a must for every South African family!

families today look very different. Statistics on family life in South Africa emphasize that it has never been easy to define or to understand. The concept of the nuclear family (mom, dad and biological children under one roof) could never adequately capture family diversity in South Africa. If the norm does not apply to you, where does it leave you? If my circumstances are not consistent with the definition of family or the norm of the nuclear family, am I still entitled to a family life or is it lost to me forever? Does my “different type of family” count? What if I have closer relationships with people who are not my biological family? Therefore, when referring to South African families it is impossible to refer to the nuclear family only. There must also be a focus on inclusiveness of diversity. This necessitates the redefinition of our concept of “family”.

taking into account the aforementioned, the book attempts to expand the child’s idea of who qualifies as family. In doing so, it helps to create a greater sense of security and belonging. It is written in a fun, accessible way, but clearly communicates the message, along with some important life lessons, for example that getting up is much more important than falling. This book is not only relevant to the South African context, but also much needed.

the book was written by the psychologist, Dr. Joanita Olivier (PhD). She is a graduate of the University of Stellenbosch and has 15 years experience in the field. She is particularly interested in positive psychology and therapy with adults, adolescents and children. Her PhD research focused on developing resilience in families. She is a wife and mother of two young children. She knows firsthand the challenges that parents face.

may this book be such a blessing to your family (whatever it may look like). Happy reading.