At preschool everyone knows it’s my birthday.
They sing Happy Birthday and give me handmade
love notes.

I can’t wait for my special meal from Mama.

I can’t wait to see my favourite cousin, Sisipho.
She is also my best friend. Her birthday is coming
in September.
Which chicken will Mama cook for me? I hope it’s the fat one.

“Zingisile, what was your favourite part of the story?” asks
Mrs Mkombe.

“Pumpkin and mealie pap!” I shout, still in my daydream.
All my friends laugh.

When I get home, Luhambo is excited. He has only had one birthday, on the 28th of April.

Now I’ve had five birthdays already!