Can you tell us about the books you have written?
I have written children’s books that inspire curiosity, courage, and limitless imagination. Two of my most beloved titles are Theo the Tiny Tiger: The Dreamer Who Roared and Lumi and the Night of Wonder.
Theo the Tiny Tiger follows a small tiger with a huge dream—he wants to fly. Despite doubt from the jungle animals, Theo teaches young readers the power of perseverance, creativity, and believing in the impossible.
Lumi and the Night of Wonder takes children on a journey through the beauty of the night, turning fear into fascination. Lumi, a tiny puppy, discovers that darkness isn’t something to be afraid of—it’s full of magic, dreams, and light in unexpected places.
Both books encourage children to embrace the unknown, think beyond limitations, and dream big.
Have you always wanted to write children’s books and be an author?
Absolutely. Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways to shape young minds. I’ve always believed in creating books that do more than entertain—they should inspire, uplift, and challenge children to think differently. Writing for children allows me to instill these values early, making a lasting impact.
What is your inspiration behind your stories?
My inspiration comes from a deep belief that imagination is the key to progress. Whether it’s Theo reaching for the sky or Lumi discovering the magic of the night, my stories teach kids that the world is full of wonder—and that their dreams, no matter how big or impossible they seem, are worth chasing.
This is also the foundation of U-TES, my larger mission beyond books. U-TES is an immersive learning platform that brings history and knowledge to life through AI and VR. Just as my books inspire kids to dream, U-TES inspires people of all ages to experience history as if they were truly there. Both my books and my larger projects share a single message: never stop exploring, questioning, and believing in the impossible.
Do you find writing easy?
Writing is a journey. Some days, the words flow effortlessly, and other days, it takes patience. But for me, the challenge is what makes it beautiful. Every story I write has a purpose—to teach, to inspire, and to encourage growth. That makes the process worth every moment.
Are your books available online, or do you prefer children to read them with a physical copy?
Both! My books are available online, making them accessible to children everywhere. But there’s something special about holding a physical book, turning the pages, and making a story your own. Whether kids read them on a screen or in their hands, the important thing is that they experience the story and take its message to heart.
What challenges did you face writing these books?
One of the biggest challenges is creating a story that is both simple enough for children to enjoy but deep enough to carry a lasting message. Children are incredibly smart and intuitive, so every word, every illustration, and every theme has to be meaningful. I want my books to be something kids remember and carry with them long after they’ve grown up.
How did you go about getting the book published?
I chose to self-publish, which gave me full creative control over how my stories were told. Platforms like Amazon allowed me to reach readers globally while staying true to my vision. The journey to publishing is never easy, but when you believe in your work, it’s always worth it.
Do you plan on writing any more books?
Without a doubt. There are always more stories to tell. I want to continue creating books that inspire children to think beyond limits, embrace curiosity, and see the world differently.
What are your thoughts about the declining literacy numbers amongst children in this country?
It’s a serious issue, and it starts with making reading exciting. Kids today have so many distractions, so books need to capture their imagination in a way that feels just as immersive. That’s why I write stories that ignite curiosity and wonder, and it’s also why U-TES exists—to make history and learning an unforgettable experience.
What advice would you give any budding young authors reading this?
Dream big, just like Theo. Your stories matter. The world needs more voices, more perspectives, and more creativity. Don’t be afraid to write what’s in your heart, and never let doubt stop you. Every great book starts with a dream.
Have you heard of our award-winning educational board games? How can you see them helping and engaging young children into wanting to learn to read?
I think educational games are a fantastic way to make learning interactive and fun. Children learn best when they’re engaged, and anything that encourages reading through play is a step in the right direction.
CHECK OUT SOME OF TAFARI’S BOOKS HERE
