Up-and-coming writer Tuntufye Mwangupili, 21, has released her debut publication, a speculative novel titled The Guardians: Beginning.
The storyline centres on six kingdoms which are protected from evil gems scattered all over them. The gems get lost and the warriors from the kingdoms are sent out to recover them before the kingdoms face destruction.
Mwangupili displays her wit, passion and deep knowledge in the narrative which is based on fantasy.
In an interview, she said the novel project was inspired by a short story she did while in Form Two.
“A friend of mine who was in Form Four while I was in Form Two told me that she wanted to write a book. She shared the plot which inspired me to write a short story. My classmate saw it and told me I should turn it into a book,” said Mwangupili.
The novel, which has been published by Montfort Media, was released on Friday. The official launch date is yet to be announced as they await to be guided on the Covid-19 public gathering restrictions.
Mwangupili said it feels amazing that she has managed to publish a novel at a young age.
“It has been my dream for long. It is a package which offers lessons on unity, compassion and responsibility. I hope the readers will enjoy it,” she said.
Writer, book publisher and journalist Alick Ponje said this is an indication that the reading culture is not lost in the young generation.
“To be a writer one has to be a reader first and this sets the pace for writing for this generation. The future is brilliant in literary space.
“It is good to see that she has taken the journey of speculative novel. This is where the future is for this generation. There are few novels in that area for Malawian writing,” he said.
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