The Rocket Man Saves The Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji Takes Flight at Africa Forward Fest: Celebrating African Stories, Books and New Connections

 

The vibrant world of African literature came alive at the Africa Forward Fest, held at Alliance Française, where authors, publishers, booksellers, readers and lovers of African stories gathered to celebrate the power of books and the importance of storytelling. Among the many books showcased at the festival was The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji, written and self-published by Angela Ayako through Angela Ayako Publishing.

For the author, participating in the festival was more than simply an opportunity to sell books. It was a chance to take The Rocket Man directly to readers, interact with book lovers, share the story behind the book and connect with other people who are passionate about African literature and publishing.

Throughout the festival, copies of The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji were available for sale, giving readers an opportunity to discover the story and learn more about its message. The book combines children's literature, environmental education and African storytelling, encouraging young readers to think about climate change and the role they can play in protecting the planet.

One of the most rewarding parts of the experience was meeting readers face-to-face. As an author, seeing someone pick up your book, flip through its pages and become curious about the story is a special experience. The festival also gave Angela the opportunity to sign copies purchased by readers, turning each book into a personal keepsake and creating meaningful connections between the author and her audience.

The atmosphere at Africa Forward Fest was filled with energy and creativity. There was a constant buzz of activities throughout the venue, with conversations taking place among authors, readers and industry professionals. The auditorium hosted discussions and book launches, providing a platform for writers to share their work, ideas and experiences with audiences.

The festival also offered an inspiring opportunity to interact with other amazing African authors. Angela had the privilege of spending time around talented writers including Eric Rugara, Andrew Maina, Euniah Mbambazi, Beth Ruga and Wanjiku Thuku, among others. Being surrounded by accomplished and emerging voices in African literature created an environment of learning, encouragement and inspiration.

For an independent author and self-publisher, such spaces are particularly important. Publishing a book independently requires an author to wear many hats, from writing and editing to marketing, distribution and connecting directly with readers. Events such as Africa Forward Fest provide an opportunity to step away from the digital world and experience the human side of publishing.

The festival also brought together important players in the book industry, including publishing companies and bookshops. Nuria Bookshop was among the bookselling businesses present, highlighting the growing ecosystem supporting African authors and readers. Having publishers, booksellers and authors in the same space created opportunities for networking and conversations about how African books can reach more readers both locally and internationally.

For The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji, being part of the festival was especially significant because the book is built around themes that extend beyond entertainment. Through the adventures of Khari and Taraji, the story introduces children to climate action while encouraging curiosity, creativity and a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

The presence of young readers and families at literary events like this demonstrates the importance of creating books that speak directly to African children. Stories can help children see themselves, their communities and their environment reflected in literature. They can also introduce complex issues such as climate change in ways that are engaging and accessible.

Another memorable highlight was meeting Jeff Waithaka, an upcoming book reviewer. Connecting with emerging voices in book reviewing was a valuable part of the festival experience. Book reviewers play an important role in helping readers discover new authors and titles, particularly independent and emerging writers whose work may not always receive mainstream attention.

The Africa Forward Fest experience was therefore about much more than selling copies. It was about community, conversations, relationships and the shared belief that African stories deserve to be written, published, promoted and read.

For Angela Ayako Publishing, the festival represented another step forward in building awareness around The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji and its message of climate action for children. Every signed copy, every conversation with a reader and every new connection made at the festival became part of the book's continuing journey.

As the African publishing and literary landscape continues to grow, events such as Africa Forward Fest remind us that books remain powerful bridges between people. They bring authors and readers together, create opportunities for collaboration and give stories a space to travel.

For The Rocket Man, the journey continues. From the pages of a children's book to the hands of readers at Alliance Française, Khari and Taraji are continuing their mission to inspire young minds to care about the planet one reader, one conversation and one story at a time.

The Rocket Man Saves The Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji at Second Place in the Writing Right Na Kinya Awards

The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji has achieved an exciting milestone after being nominated for Best Children’s Book at the Writing Right Na Kinya Awards 2026, ultimately earning an impressive second-place position. This recognition is a proud moment for the book’s author, Angela Ayako, and a celebration of the power of children’s literature to inspire young minds to care about the world around them.

The journey to the awards was made even more special because the nomination was not only about a book it became a shared experience involving friends, well-wishers, readers, supporters, and people who believed in the message behind the story. Their votes, encouragement, and willingness to share the nomination helped The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji reach an important milestone.

For an independent, self-published author, receiving recognition alongside other children’s books is particularly meaningful. Writing a book is already a journey that requires creativity, persistence, and belief in an idea. Seeing that work recognized by an awards platform provides encouragement to continue creating stories that educate, entertain, and inspire children.

The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji is more than a children’s adventure story. At its heart is an important message about climate change and the responsibility that everyone including children has in protecting the planet. Through the adventures of Khari and Taraji, young readers are encouraged to become curious about the environment and understand that their everyday choices can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable world.

The story also seeks to make environmental education relatable to African children. Its Kenyan setting and characters provide young readers with familiar cultural references while introducing them to a global issue that affects communities around the world. Climate change can sometimes feel like a distant or complicated subject, but children’s stories can make the conversation easier to understand.

The book’s message is especially relevant at a time when young people are becoming increasingly interested in environmental protection, sustainability, and climate action. By introducing these ideas through storytelling, The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji aims to show children that they can learn, ask questions, make responsible choices, and become part of positive change.

The second-place award at the Writing Right Na Kinya Awards is therefore a meaningful achievement. It demonstrates that a story created with a strong educational and social purpose can connect with readers and supporters. It also highlights the importance of giving African authors and children’s literature a platform where their voices and ideas can be recognized.

Behind this achievement is a community of people who took the time to vote and support the book. Every vote represented more than a number. It was a message of encouragement to the author and an indication that people believed in the importance of the book’s story. Friends and well-wishers who shared information about the nomination, encouraged others to vote, and stood behind the project played an important role in helping the book secure second place.

Their support is deeply appreciated because independent authors often have to wear many hats. From writing and editing to publishing, marketing, promoting, and finding readers, the journey can be challenging. Having a supportive community makes that journey less lonely and gives authors the motivation to keep going.

The achievement also reinforces the vision behind Angela Ayako Publishing: to create stories that spark creativity in children while teaching important life values. The goal is not simply to produce books but to use storytelling as a tool for learning, imagination, cultural pride, and positive action.

The recognition could also help introduce the book to more parents, teachers, schools, libraries, and organizations interested in children’s education and climate awareness. Awards can create opportunities for conversations about the role of literature in helping children understand important issues affecting their future.

As The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji celebrates its second-place achievement, the journey does not end here. Instead, this milestone serves as motivation to reach even more young readers and continue promoting reading culture and climate awareness.

The award is a reminder that every story has the potential to make a difference. A book can entertain a child, teach a lesson, inspire curiosity, or encourage a young reader to think differently about the world.

For Angela Ayako, seeing The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji nominated for Best Children’s Book and coming second is both an achievement and an encouragement to keep writing.

Most importantly, this moment belongs to everyone who supported the book. To every friend, reader, voter, family member, and well-wisher who believed in the story and took the time to vote: thank you. Your support helped The Rocket Man fly higher.

Second place may be a position on an awards list, but for this independent children’s book, it represents something much bigger a growing community of people who believe that stories can inspire children to read, dream, create, and help protect our planet.

From Page to Platform: My Experience at the Launch of Snapplify's Book Buddy at The Nairobi International Book Fair

 

There is an exciting shift happening in how stories and educational content reach readers today. For independent creators, bridging the gap between traditional publishing and digital distribution is a major step. That journey brought me to last year’s Nairobi International Book Fair at the Sarit Centre in Westlands.

As the author of The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji, I had been in constant communication with Snapplify’s talent acquisition manager. We were actively working through the process of getting my book onto the Snapplify platform a major milestone for bringing Khari and Taraji’s environmental adventures to a broader digital audience. Because of that ongoing collaboration, I was invited to attend Snapplify’s special event at the fair: the official launch of Book Buddy.

What is Book Buddy?

Unveiled to an audience of publishers, authors, and educators, Book Buddy is Snapplify's AI-powered learning assistant designed to transform static reading into an interactive learning experience.

Integrated directly into the Snapplify ecosystem, Book Buddy acts as a 24/7 digital study companion. Instead of just reading passively, students and teachers can interact directly with their learning materials through features like:

Instant Concept Clarification: Readers can highlight passages or ask questions about complex topics, receiving context-aware explanations instantly.

Automated Study Aids:The tool helps students digest information by generating chapter summaries, custom flashcards, and practice quizzes.

Multilingual Support: It can translate complex ideas and break down language barriers, making learning content far more accessible for diverse student populations.

For authors like myself, seeing technology like Book Buddy in action opens up exciting possibilities for how young readers will engage with eco-fiction and educational books in the future.

AI in Education: The Theme of the Book Fair

The launch of Book Buddy fit squarely into the overarching theme of last year's Nairobi International Book Fair, the integration of Artificial Intelligence into the education system.

For years, the fair has been a hub for physical print, paper, and traditional publishing. However, last year's focus reflected a massive evolution across Kenya and the wider African educational landscape. The discussions centered on how smart technologies can democratize learning and support teachers, rather than replace them.

Integrating AI into classrooms and digital libraries addresses several key challenges:

1. Personalized Learning:AI tools allow students to learn at their own pace, offering extra explanations to those who need them without slowing down the class.

2. Greater Accessibility:By delivering intelligent tutoring tools through digital platforms and even low-data channels, quality learning resources reach beyond physical classroom walls.

3. Interactive Engagement: Instead of rote memorization, AI encourages kids to ask questions, think critically, and interrogate the material they are reading.

Looking Ahead

Attending the event at the Sarit Centre provided a clear picture of where digital publishing is headed. Being in the process of bringing The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji onto the Snapplify platform while witnessing their launch of cutting-edge AI tools was a fantastic look into the future of African literature and learning. 

As writers, creating the story is only the first step, ensuring it reaches young minds through the platforms shaping tomorrow’s classrooms is where the real impact begins.

The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji at Nairobi Bookfest 2025

 

The Nairobi Bookfest 2025 at Alliance Française was more than just a literary event for me it was a defining chapter in my journey as a children’s book author, climate advocate, creative entrepreneur and social impact advocate. For three unforgettable days, stories, ideas, and community came alive in a space that celebrated African voices, imagination, and purpose-driven storytelling.

I was deeply honored to be introduced and invited to participate in the exhibition area as an author by the renowned Kenyan writer Euniah Mbabazi. Her support and recognition meant a great deal to me, especially as an emerging author working at the intersection of children’s literature, climate education, and creative expression. Being welcomed into the festival through such a respected voice in Kenya’s literary space was both humbling and affirming. I met Euniah at Nuria bookstore where we both sell our books.

 

At the heart of my participation was my children’s book, The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji a story designed to make climate change understandable, relatable, and hopeful for young readers. Throughout the festival, I had the opportunity to showcase the book, engage directly with parents, educators, and children, and explain the inspiration behind the story: empowering African children to see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and protectors of the planet.

The exhibition area buzzed with energy. Book selling was just one part of the experience there were conversations, laughter, learning moments, and spontaneous exchanges of ideas. Children were especially curious, asking questions about the characters Khari and Taraji, the science behind global warming, and how they too could help save the Earth. Those interactions reminded me why children’s literature is such a powerful tool for change.

One of the highlights of the festival was the opportunity to enjoy the company of other accomplished Kenyan authors, including Sandra Nekh. Being surrounded by writers who are shaping narratives, challenging norms, and expanding the literary landscape was incredibly inspiring. The sense of community among authors established and emerging alike made the experience feel collaborative rather than competitive.

Beyond book sales, the three-day event was filled with enriching activities: panel discussions, readings, networking sessions, and cultural exchanges that reflected Nairobi’s vibrant literary scene. Alliance Française provided the perfect setting open, creative, and welcoming to host conversations that matter, especially those centered on education, children, and Africa’s future.

For me, Nairobi Bookfest 2025 reaffirmed the importance of telling stories that matter. The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji is not just a book it is part of a larger mission to use storytelling to advocate for climate action, environmental awareness, and inclusive fun education for children, particularly in underserved communities.

As I look back on those three days, I carry forward gratitude, new connections, and renewed motivation. Nairobi Bookfest was a reminder that when stories, community, and purpose come together, they create impact far beyond the pages of a book. And reading culture is something that needs to be upheld.

The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji : Inspiring Young Minds at the Nairobi International Trade Fair Hosted by Finn Church Aid WICE Program

 

The author of The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji was deeply honored to be present at the Nairobi International Trade Fair, where the book captured the attention of many parents and children. Young readers were especially fascinated and eager to learn how one comes up with an idea for a book, how stories are created, and what it takes to become an author. Their curiosity and excitement highlighted the should be growing interest among children in storytelling, creativity, and environmental awareness.

At the Finn Church Aid (FCA) stand, the atmosphere was vibrant and inspiring. FCA proudly hosted beneficiaries of their WICE Entrepreneurs Program, giving them a platform to showcase their diverse businesses and innovations. Standing together with fellow students from different WICE cohorts, each running unique ventures, was both humbling and fulfilling. The sense of unity, empowerment, and shared purpose was evident throughout the event.

One of the most memorable moments was interacting with children who were thrilled to discover a book that teaches them about global warming in a fun and engaging way. Many parents expressed appreciation for a story that not only entertains but also educates young minds about climate change, environmental protection, and the importance of taking action. The book encourages children to think critically about their environment and inspires them to become future change-makers.

The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji follows the exciting adventures of heroic characters who work together to protect the planet. By presenting climate change in a simple and relatable manner, the book helps children understand a complex global issue while encouraging a strong reading culture within the community.

The event also offered a perfect opportunity to highlight the incredible work of the WICE (Women in Community Engagement) Program under Finn Church Aid. The WICE program empowers women entrepreneurs by equipping them with essential skills, business training, mentorship, and access to funding. Its goal is to uplift women, strengthen communities, and create sustainable economic growth. Many of the entrepreneurs at the fair including the author are proud beneficiaries of this impactful initiative. 

Being part of the Nairobi International Trade Fair was a meaningful experience that brought together literacy, creativity, entrepreneurship, and climate awareness. It was a celebration of learning, empowerment, and the power of storytelling in shaping a better, greener future for the next generation.

The Rocket Man Saves the Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji is available at Nuria Bookstore ,Amazon Kindle  and Snapplify. 

No Saints By Sandra Nekh - A Thrilling Novel You Wont Be Able To Put Down

When was the last time a novel made you question everything—your faith, your city, even your sanity? Sandra Nekh’s No Saints does just that. Set against the gritty backdrop of Nairobi’s underbelly, this psychological roller-coaster dives deep into cults, crime syndicates, and the sinister forces that bind them.

Introduction:

Sandra Nekh's "No Saints" is a gripping psychological thriller that plunges readers into the dark underbelly of Kenyan cults and crime. Nekh, known for tackling heavy topics, delivers a bold and cinematic narrative that explores themes of survival, secrets, and the psychological impact of cult life.

Plot Summary 

The story follows St Clair, the daughter of a cult leader, as she attempts to escape her past while remaining entangled in a web of drugs and dangerous secrets. Nekh wastes no time in throwing the reader into a perilous situation, setting the stage for a thrilling and unsettling journey.

Strengths:

Intense and Gripping: "No Saints" immediately captivates with its raw and realistic portrayal of dark themes.

Authentic Backdrop: Nekh's extensive research into cult movements across Kenya lends the novel an unsettling authenticity.

Cinematic Style: Nekh's background as a filmmaker shines through, creating a visually rich and immersive reading experience.

Unflinching Exploration of Taboo Topics: Nekh fearlessly tackles crime, adult content, and violence, pushing the boundaries of Kenyan literature.

Overall:

"No Saints" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and those interested in exploring the darker side of Kenyan society. Sandra Nekh has crafted a bold and unforgettable novel that will leave readers questioning the façade of society. Nekh was influenced by Jed Rubenfeld’s Interpretation of Murder while writing No Saints.

Launch & Where to Buy

No Saints debuted in June 2025 at the McMillan Memorial Library at an evening of whiskey-tinged readings, live jazz, and fierce debate among Kenya’s top literary voices. Missed it? No worries:

Pick up your copy of "No Saints" and prepare to be captivated!

You can find it at Nuria book store. 

Ready for Your Next Thriller?

If you crave a story that’s as smart as it is savage, No Saints belongs on your shelf—and in your heart. Grab your copy and prepare to question every whisper, every shadow, and every sacred vow you thought you understood.

Sandra Nekh is an author of other compelling fiction novels, including "Amir", "Ophelia", "Eastern Butterfly" and "The Burgundy". "No Saints" is her fifth novel which adds to her trail of amazing writing.

#Cults #crime #psychologicalthriller #Kenya, #Kenyanliterature #SandraNekh, #bookreview

Elevator Pitch – First Person

 

Hi, my name is Angela Ayako — I’m the writer, illustrator, and self-publisher of a children’s book titled The Rocket Man Saves The Planet from Global Warming with Khari and Taraji.

 

This book was officially released on March 8th, 2024, and is currently available as both an eBook and paperback on Amazon, and later expanded to Nuria Bookstore in both formats as well. The story follows two courageous children, Khari and Taraji, who team up with a mysterious superhero — The Rocket Man — to stop the effects of global warming and protect the Earth.

 

The adventure is fun, visually engaging, and packed with environmental education tailored for kids aged 7 to 15.

 But this is more than just a book — it's a movement. It inspires young readers to care about their planet, and encourages sustainable habits through storytelling. Parents, teachers, and librarians love it because it entertains while educating — something that’s hard to find in today’s children’s literature.

 

I’ve invested my skills and resources into every stage of this project — from writing and illustration to publishing and marketing — and now I’m looking to grow. 

That’s why I’m here today. I’m seeking investors and collaborators who believe in impactful, purpose-driven storytelling. With your support, we can expand distribution into more schools, libraries, and international markets, develop animated content or activity-based learning kits, and run environmental literacy campaigns in partnership with educational institutions and non-profits. 

The book is priced accessibly — $8 for Kindle and $11 for paperback — making it ideal for bulk orders and school programs, which we’re already exploring. I’ve built the business model on strong foundations: digital and physical distribution, local bookstore partnerships, influencer marketing, and school engagement strategies. 

What I need now is the backing to scale — and the right partners who see the value in creating a greener future by educating the next generation. So if you're passionate about children’s education, sustainability, or publishing innovation — I’d love to talk more about how we can collaborate to grow this story into something truly powerful.

 Thank you.