Everyday Magic

Shakira Maharaj is a debut children’s book author from South Africa. She lives in Cape Town with her young son, tired husband and chubby dog. She has a Master’s Degree from the University of Cape Town, and when she’s not writing or mothering, she works for an NGO focused on early childhood development.Karen Vermeulen is an artist, illustrator, and teacher living in Cape Town, South Africa, known for her happy, uplifting and quirky creations. She is the illustrator of the 2023 picture book, It's Just Skin, Silly! and the 2024 release of Wanjiku, Child of Mine, a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Book. She is the author and illustrator of Good Luck To Us All: A Graphic Novel of Sorts (Catalyst Press, 2024).

“As a psychologist working with adoptive families, I’m delighted to welcome this beautifully illustrated South African book onto our bookshelves. It follows a couple’s journey from choosing adoption to bringing their baby home, highlighting their deep desire to grow a family—not to rescue a child. This gentle narrative challenges harmful stereotypes and offers a creative portrayal of the screening and matching process, without overwhelming detail. The role of extended family and community support adds a rich layer. Though written for children, it’s a reassuring companion for prospective adoptive parents navigating the uncertainty of the process. A must-have from the moment the journey begins.” — Dr Jean Luyt, Clinical Psychologist, Founder of Cape Town Adoption Support"This fairy tale focused on making a family through adoption brings home the realities of a couple's growing love and understanding of parenting as they navigate what it means to adopt. We witness Meera and Max who show us how parents who adopt open our hearts to our children even as we wait for their arrival. The lyrical language draws readers into the magic and appeals to all ages. The magical elements build a world of incredible love, and the illustrations draw us in to the story of a family as they begin their journey together." — Ann Angel, adoptive mother of four, author of Adopted Like Me: My Book of Adoption Heroes