Thato’s Birthday Surprise

Summary

The story centers around a young boy named Thato who eagerly anticipates his upcoming birthday. As the week progresses, each day is filled with his imaginative thoughts and wild guesses about the BIG surprise his mom has promised. From giant wings to a house-sized cake, and even a rocket ship to the moon, Thato's ideas range from fantastical to adventurous. On the big day, the surprise is revealed to be the visit of Thato's beloved big brother, Kudzai, who has traveled from the city. This heartfelt twist emphasizes the value of family and connection over material gifts, highlighting that the best surprises come in the form of loved ones. The story concludes with Kudzai giving his little brother a lift and the promise of a fun-filled day together, leaving Thato brimming with happiness.

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It is one week until Thato’s birthday.

That’s seven whole days!

His mama says: “Your birthday present will be a BIG surprise!”

Thato wonders: what will it be?

On Monday, Thato thinks:
“Maybe I will get giant wings so I can fly high in the sky like a bird…”

On Tuesday, Thato thinks:
“Maybe I will have a birthday cake as big as a house!”

On Wednesday, Thato thinks:
“Maybe I will get a rocket ship to whizz up to the moon.”

On Thursday, Thato thinks:
“Maybe I will get fins so I can swim under the water like a fish.”

On Friday, Thato thinks:
“Maybe I will get magic soccer boots and score a thousand goals!”

On Saturday, Thato thinks:
“Maybe I will get a key that opens a box filled with treasure!”

On Sunday, it is Thato’s birthday.

Mama smiles and says:
“Come and see your surprise!”

It is the best present ever.
Thato’s big brother Kudzai has come to visit all the way from the big city!

Thato smiles and smiles, and his big brother lifts him up in the air and hugs him.

Kudzai asks:
“What do you want to do for your birthday, little brother?”

And Thato knows exactly what they will do the whole day long.


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/thatos-birthday-surprise and was created by: Jodi Houareau (Designer), Brad Cuzen (Illustrator), Corinne Rosmarin (Writer)

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