Meet Kenyan Joan Thatiah, of ‘Things I Will Tell My Daughter’

By Wini Nduta

 Joan Thatiah is a 28 year old mom of two aged 8 and 6. She loves reading and writing and if she isn’t doing that, trust that she is glued to the TV screen watching a movie. A self-proclaimed introvert, she needs her time to re-charge after being around people.
Her inspiring book, ‘Things I will tell my Daughter’ has social media buzzing. Moms are always looking for ways to improve the parenting experience and a Kenyan point of view was very well received. Joan was inspired to open lines of communication between mothers and their growing daughters. In our society, some topics are no go zones and too often children get into situations that could have been avoided with some honesty at home.

What from your childhood or life experience inspired you to write this book?
This book is a combination of all the life lessons I have learnt so far. What led me to write though was the realization that there is so much out here that our mothers never talked to us about.

What, in your words, is the book about? 
The book is a look into things I believe to be true. I have delved into various topics, namely love, money and womanhood. I give my views on these topics based on my life lessons and the experiences of the women I have met.

How long did it take to write the book? 
The writing of this book took me 8 months

What can readers expect? 
Readers should expects lots of hard truths and taboo topics

What's one thing moms should remember while raising a girl?
Remember that experience isn't always the best teacher.

What can be done to empower our kids, especially in regards to the Kenyan education system?
We are obsessed with grades. In our quest to get our children to clinch number one, we miss out on our opportunities to nurture their talents.

Do you have any self-love tips we can teach our kids?
The most vital tip would me remembering at all times that you matter.

What's your message to the world?
My message to the world would be, refuse to sink. Refuse to let the world drown out your voice. Your voice is your most valuable asset.
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Joan Thatiah

Where can we buy your book? 
You can email me on jthatiah@gmail.com or get it at Magunga Bookstore, it’s an online bookstore.
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Like her Facebook page here