A seven-year-old South African has made history - as the youngest published author in Africa. Michelle Nkamankeng wrote Waiting for Waves - a book about hope and self-confidence. She was born in South Africa to Cameroonian parents.

Michelle Nkamankeng, a seven-year-old South African, has made history - as the youngest published author in Africa.

Most seven-year-olds across the world are getting into the basics of reading and writing.

Michelle Nkamaneng, though, has already published a book.

"It's about a little girl and her family who live far away from the beach And one day they went into the beach and the little girl loved the waves but she was still scared of them and her uncle and her family helped her to believe in herself," she said.

That makes her the youngest writer in Africa.

An accolade she's still processing.

"I feel so proud of myself . Like at home I think I'm going to cry tears of joy. And also I am so happy with myself," she said.

Her mother, Lolo, says she's always enjoyed reading.

But never expected her daughter to become so accomplished at such a young age.

"I feel so happy, excited, I'm the happiest mum ever because it's not easy to see a seven year old child publish a book," she said.

"The most important thing, we want her not to lose focus on what she's normally doing, mostly her education because she always tell people, education is important."

"She did keep the book a secret from the whole family but my sister and I and the siblings all knew she was writing a book. She wanted us to all help her write the book and I was illustrating the book," said Michelle's sister.

South Africa - and indeed Africa as a whole - is struggling with its literacy levels.

Michelle has this piece of advice for children on the continent.

"My message to other children is reading is fun. Always follow your dreams and don't let anybody get in your way and also if you can't read, you can't write," she said.

Michelle isn't all about writing, though.She also loves dancing and singing - and wishes one day to become a paediatrician.