Abstract
Children’s literature, more specifically in Sesotho sa Leboa, remains an uncultivated field of study. The lack of this literature has proved to be a hindrance in dealing with literary issues in South Africa. According to The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) report, Sesotho sa Leboa speaking children are amongst the lowest when it comes to reading for meaning. It is known that children’s reading resources, in an indigenous language like Sesotho sa Leboa, are not many. This study made a distinction in the interpretation of oral literature as a form of children’s literature, and written children’s literature.
This research aimed at shedding light on the scarcity of Sesotho sa Leboa children’s literature and its impact on literacy. This is done to create awareness around available resources and how these resources can be utilized by teachers, parents or caregivers and children. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to understand what their role could be in supporting their children in their early years of learning. The aim of this research is also to add a voice to different scholars who are concerned about the low reading levels even in children’s home languages. Children’s literature, other than playing a significant role in dealing with issues of literacy, has shown to stand a chance in dealing with societal challenges through bibliotherapy. This was done in acknowledging the many factors that can hinder children’s ability to learn to read.
The study will reveal that available Sesotho sa Leboa children’s literature, more especially the written genre of this literature, is not enough. More of what is available is oral literature. There is an overreliance on translated children's books, which comes with many challenges pertaining to culture, language, and identity. It is also crucial that this study look at better ways of achieving decolonized children’s books. The content of such books, the study argues, will empower children’s self-appreciation and love for their languages and culture, without misrepresenting them as inferior. There is a need for originally written Sesotho sa Leboa books, books that affirm a black child and open an opportunity for the development of the love of reading.