It's Women's Month and no better time to celebrate inspirational women who have formed the backbone of the new South Africa.

In this episode of TGE's Current Read, Sam chats to local children's book author Wendy Maartens about her latest project, Torchbearers.

This series of books, aimed at preteens from 11 and up, features the stories of 12 heroic and inspiring women of South Africa who deserve to be celebrated; women that will inspire anyone. From well-known women like Thuli Madonsela, Caster Semenya and Vanessa Govender, to more unsung heros such as Grizelda Grootboom and Suna Venter.

Wendy reveals why she was inspired to tell these women's stories, what the writing process was like and why she aimed her writing at young people. We also hear about some of the interviews she conducted to best get into the minds of the women featured in the series

With unique, colourful illustrations by Linki Brand,Torchbearers is a must-have for every young reader. The books can be bought individually or in a beautiful box set which serves as the perfect collector’s item for budding readers. More about Torchbearers