Palesa Can Walk!

Summary

This children's story follows Palesa, a little girl who is eagerly anticipating her first birthday. The narrative details her excitement and anticipation, as she imagines the gifts her friends will bring, such as a rattle, a drum, and more extravagant items from her Aunty Mamsie. As Palesa finally falls asleep, her birthday celebration begins with friends arriving and piling up gifts. Initially possessive of her presents, Palesa asserts herself by gathering her toys, leading to an uplifting moment where she takes her first steps. This milestone makes everyone celebrate and gather around her, making it a happy event not just for Palesa but for everyone involved. The story conveys themes of anticipation, sharing, and the joy of milestones in a child's early life, making it suitable for teaching young children about birthdays and social interactions.

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Palesa can’t sleep.
It’s her birthday tomorrow.
She’s one year old!

All her friends will bring her lots of presents.

Seth will bring a…
What will Seth bring? A rattle!
And Sandile? A drum!

But what about Aunty Mamsie?
Oh, she’ll bring a cake, balloons, a trumpet, a talking doll, a computer, and … and … and …

LOOK! Palesa’s fast asleep…

TRII-IING-TRII-IING!
“Happy birthday!” comes from the door.
“Come in! Come in!” Mommy shouts.

On her stool, Palesa’s eyes grow bigger and bigger.

Over there, against the wall, the pile of toys grows and grows and grows.

“Mine!” Palesa screams.
“Mine!” she waves her angry arms.
But everybody’s busy playing.

“MINE!” And, with one big heave, pushes herself up. She goes and gathers the toys.

Everybody stops.
Then they all clap their hands.
“Hurray! Palesa can walk!”

Look! Now everyone is happy.
Palesa is happy to play with her friends.

Credits

Originally published by Book Dash under a Creative Commons Licensed BY 4.0. This book can be read for free on https://bookdash.org/books/palesa-can-walk! and was created by: Thulisizwe Mamba (Designer), Sinomonde Ngwane (Illustrator), Sindiwe Magona (Writer), Martha Evans (Editor) Book Dash logo