Dr. Madeleine Muller, an East London doctor and a lecturer at Walter Sisulu University, has written a “queer positive” book aimed at educating young people from the age of 12.
Superheroes in Sterkstroom is the fourth installment in the Abancedi series that tells the story of Indigo, a non-binary18- year-old “shapeshifter” who is on the hunt for others like himself.
The story includes Eastern Cape heroes Nina, Bonnie and Mila, who are featured in the previous three books.
“This book is about a bunch of youngsters on an adventure who have a diverse range of skills, and also represent a diverse range of individuals, both straight and queer. This is similar to the world we live in.
“I love books that normalize the diversity of our communities and ensure that everyone is affirmed and included. This is such a book,” said Muller.
“The book explores the use of gender-neutral pronouns, something that has become increasingly widespread in society as we strive to be a more inclusive community for members of the LGBTQI+ community.
“The most popular pronoun for a non-binary person is the singular they/them. The singular they/them was often used in old Shakespearean English but is still common in our language when using a gender-neutral term.
“There is also a range of neo-pronouns that are becoming increasingly popular.
“In the chapters that are told from Indigo’s point of view, I have used the neo pronouns ne/nem/nir.
“Using neo-pronouns requires a shift in one’s thinking at first but you quickly get used to them,” said Muller.
The other three books in the series Runnin’ on the Flats, Dimbaza Divine, and On the rocks at Mdumbi all follow each other in time but can be read independently. Muller, who has spoken about her children being the inspiration for the series, collaborated with them on the books.
“This book is dedicated to my youngest child who turned 14 in 2022. He has a specific love for animals, which is very much reflected in the love and dedication of Nina, one of the characters in Superheroes in Sterkstroom.
“Benji, my 18-year-old who just completed matric, did the illustrations,” said Muller.
The books are stocked at The Book Lounge as well as Harry’s Printers in East London and Hey Clay! (next to Chintsa Deli) in Chintsa East, and on Amazon.
