User:K.A. Mulenga

K.A. Mulenga Kalenga Augustine Mulenga, popularly known as K.A. Mulenga, is a Zambian-born children’s author residing in Johannesburg, South Africa. He is celebrated for his engaging stories that blend humor with powerful, positive messages, aimed at inspiring young readers. ________________________________________ Early Life and Background Kalenga Augustine Mulenga was born in Zambia, a Southern African nation. His creative roots trace back to his father, Kelvin Mulenga, a pioneering journalist and the first Black African editor of the Zambia Daily Mail. Mulenga’s names, “Kalenga” and “Mulenga,” signify “Creative Spirit” in Bemba, an indigenous Zambian language, and were bestowed upon him by his great-aunt. He later relocated to Johannesburg, South Africa, where he lives with his wife and two of their three children. His eldest child has recently moved to Cape Town. ________________________________________ Writing Career Mulenga’s writing journey began at the age of ten, driven by a passion that he attributes to his father’s influence. Today, he has authored over 30 children’s books and numerous short stories. Several of his works have garnered significant acclaim, with three short stories reaching the #1 position on the Amazon Bestsellers’ List. Mulenga’s works are known for their ability to entertain while imparting valuable life lessons. His dedication to children’s literature earned him the 2023 Coppa Book Award (second place) for Best of Children’s Literature, as well as First Runner-Up in the Coppa Book Awards’ Best Children’s Book category. Among his popular titles, Chuck the Cheetah has achieved particular success. It was shortlisted for the Behind the Book Awards’ Best Children’s Book and featured on the CommonLit app, a platform supporting literacy education. Additionally, Susie Strickland Sizzling Striker was rewritten for inclusion in Scholastic’s StoryWorks 3 children’s magazine. In 2023, Mulenga completed his six-part Never Give Up soccer series and published four new titles. He is also working on an ambitious slate of upcoming books, including a sequel to Chuck the Cheetah, Christmas-themed stories, and a highly anticipated dinosaur book. ________________________________________ Advocacy for Literacy Beyond writing, Mulenga is an advocate for literacy and youth education in South Africa. He actively participates in reading programs and literacy initiatives, promoting a love for books among young people. His school visits and book readings are integral to his mission to foster creativity and learning. ________________________________________ Recognition and Future Endeavors In addition to his literary accolades, Mulenga was signed by Sara Megibow, a reputable U.S.-based literary agent, who is currently pitching his manuscripts to prominent publishers. His work continues to gain traction internationally, with ten new titles planned for release in 2024. ________________________________________ Bibliography • Chuck the Cheetah • Susie Strickland Sizzling Striker (and its sequel) • Never Give Up soccer series • Numerous short stories (some Amazon Bestsellers) ________________________________________ Kalenga Augustine Mulenga remains a vibrant voice in children’s literature, combining creativity and cultural depth to leave a lasting impact on his readers.