An eight-year-old Kamsiyochukwu Anusi, from Imo State, has become Nigeria’s second youngest author following the publication of his book titled: “Adventures round the Shining Egg”.
The feat earned him Africa’s third youngest author and one of the world’s listed number six youngest authors.
The basic four pupil at Mary Pearl Ville Academy in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Kamsiyochukwu’s love for writing and storytelling led him to record the achievement..
Born in Imo State, he resides in Port Harcourt with family, where he draws inspiration from his surroundings.
In an interview, Kamsiyochukwu shared his experiences, interests, and motivations and spoke fondly of the family, including his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chukwuma Anusi, and siblings, Delight and Excel.
The young author said his daily routine includes attending school, doing homework, teaching his sister, and writing stories.
Kamsiyochukwu said he usually writes at home, often imagining and drawing inspiration from his surroundings adding that his writing desk is the dining table, where he says he remains focus without distractions.
He said he got inspiration from story books his parents bought for him, saying; “I read a lot of story books and one day I felt like I should write my own story, I tried it and that was how the whole thing started.”
The young author’s book is also a testament to his creativity and imagination, where he draws inspiration from reality, fantasy, miracles, and magic, often incorporating themes that promote positive values and morals.
The young author, who dedicated his book to his parents for supporting him throughout his writing journey, and to God Almighty, also recognized his pastor, Dr. Chibueze Amadi, who has taught him valuable lessons on respect, obedience, and perseverance.
The Chairperson of the Association of Nigerian Authors(ANA), Rivers State Branch, Joy Esuku, expressed excitement about Kamsiyochukwu’s achievement.
She said: “I feel excited that is why I have been committed since I got to know of his writing*.
Esuku revealed that the Association planned to engage Kamsiyochukwu in writing activities for children and teenagers, with the aim of nurturing his talent and preparing him for formal membership in the Association.
Editor of the book, and Literary critique, Uduma Kalu,.recounted how he was introduced to the young author’s work and was impressed by his raw talent.
He said: “I went through it, I told her well, there is something here, we can work on it, and we started exchanging ideas.”
He noted that Kamsiyochukwu’s work is not just a one-off achievement but a historic milestone that deserved recognition and support.
Kingsley Egbulonu, Deputy Director and Head of the National Library of Nigeria, Port Harcourt, also expressed his admiration for Kamsiyochukwu’s talent.
He said: “As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility, National Library always identifies with authors and gifted children.” He announced that the National Library will provide space for the book launch and offer Kamsiyochukwu the necessary support to promote his work.
He also announced that the National Library would issue the author both E-ISBN and ISBN numbers for publication of the book.
Kamsiyochukwu’s father, Chukwuma Anusi, expressed pride and surprise at his son’s achievement.
He said: “Well, I know he can write like normal writing, but this professional writing, honestly, it just came by surprise,”.
He attributed his son’s success to his passion for writing and the habit of reading storybooks, which helped to widen his imagination.