Tlhokomelo Phalatsi, 20, is a young aspiring writer from Bloemfontein who began her book-writing journey in 2023 while in Grade 10, inspired by observations of learners who struggled academically, some of whom she later learned may have undiagnosed dyslexia. Her book is called The Alphabet Adventures of a Dyslexic Boy.
She recalls noticing how some of her primary school friends progressed differently through the education system, with others repeating grades multiple times in high school. “I became curious and wondered how a person could repeat one grade more than twice,” she said. This curiosity led her to research learning difficulties, particularly dyslexia.
Through her research, she discovered that dyslexia affects how the brain processes written language. “Some learners fail because they have dyslexia, and for some of them it is undiagnosed,” she explained, adding that learners often benefit from alternative learning methods such as audiobooks and oral assessments.
Phalatsi says despite not being dyslexic herself, her experience working alongside learners who have dyslexia shaped her message of inclusion and encouragement. “Having dyslexia doesn’t mean they are slow or lazy; it means they are differently abled and can still achieve anything.”
Her writing journey was not without challenges. Balancing schoolwork with writing proved difficult, and editing early drafts was especially demanding. “My drafts were messy, and I had to balance my schoolwork with writing,” she said, noting she overcame these challenges by breaking her book into smaller sections and seeking help from her English teacher.
Phalatsi hopes her story will inspire others to start despite obstacles. “Start anyway and don’t doubt yourself,” she advised. “Dyslexia doesn’t have to limit you.”
Her work aims to raise awareness in communities about learning differences and encourage empathy in classrooms across South Africa going forward.
According to publisher Charmaine Mrwebi of Charmza Literary Club, Tlhokomelo’s persistence stood out from the start. She recalls that the author first approached her in Grade 11 with a dream of publishing, and although early meetings were delayed, she never gave up and continued engaging until her manuscript was completed.
“Creating opportunities for diverse voices is not only important but essential to building an inclusive and representative publishing industry,” she said. “As a community publishing house that works closely with schools and takes literature directly into our communities, we understand that the stories we publish should reflect the people we serve.”
Mrwebi believes when children see themselves reflected in books and in stories of successful authors, they are encouraged to read, write, dream and contribute their own voices to the world.
Sibongile Selomane
