Amayah Wallace-Aniebonam Young author with a world-sized imagination
At just eight years old, Amayah Wallace-Aniebonam is already making a mark in children’s literature. With encouragement from her mother, Alisha Wallace, what began as a simple school assignment has evolved into her debut book, The Quest for the Golden Diamond, a story filled with adventure, friendship, and courage which takes young readers on an exciting adventure through the Nightmare Jungle.
The story follows Amayah and her friends as they navigate mysterious terrain filled with magical portals, surprising transformations, and unexpected allies. Along their journey to find the legendary golden diamond, the group encounters challenges that test their courage, friendship, and kindness.
This adventurous tale combines excitement with heart-warming moments, making it an engaging read for children. Amayah’s journey is part of a growing trend where young writers are stepping into the literary spotlight, showing the world that creativity knows no age limits.
Amayah’s literary adventure began at age seven when she started her Facebook page and YouTube channel, Reading with Amayah. Through these platforms, she delighted her followers by bringing stories to life—particularly those from her homeland of T&T.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, her passion for storytelling intensified, leading her to host 18 episodes in Season 1 and five in Season 2 of her show.
But reading wasn’t enough for Amayah; she wanted to write stories. A simple creative writing assignment grew into a full-fledged book that showcased her vivid imagination and love for adventure. Amayah’s response is refreshingly candid when asked about her writing: “It’s not that I like writing. I happened to write a good story for homework, and my mummy asked if I wanted it as a book.”
But while writing may not yet be her primary passion, Amayah has an undeniable talent for storytelling, which she uses to create worlds that invite young readers into new adventures. Her work reminds us that storytelling is a powerful tool for connection, no matter the storyteller’s age.
By embracing her creativity and sharing her unique perspective, Amayah inspires other young readers to see themselves as writers and creators. Amayah shared her thoughts on writing, reading, and what makes her happiest.
Why do you like writing?
“It’s not that I like writing. I happened to write a good story for homework, and my mummy asked if I wanted it as a book.”
Why do you like reading?
“Reading is fun. It’s like being teleported into a different world. I learn a lot from reading.”
What are your favourite books?
“I read different books—facts, fiction, comics.”
Who are your favourite characters in books you’ve read?
“I like Percy from Percy Jackson and the Battle of the Labyrinth. I like Jada from The Adventures of Jada. From my book, I like Amiynah, Abriana, Maleah, my mummy, my uncle, and myself.”
What are your hobbies?
“I love to dance, do arts and crafts, and fashion design. I like to try many different things. I entered the Junior Calypso Monarch competition this year and was the East Zone winner. I’ve done gymnastics and swimming. I did ballet and contemporary dance. Now I’m in hip-hop and Afrobeat dance class.”
Do you plan to be a writer when you grow up?
“No. I plan to be a police officer, chef, pilot, fashion designer, and teacher.”
What do you do when you’re happy?
“I sing and dance.”
What do you do when you’re sad?
“I hug my mummy. Sometimes, I take some alone time.”
Describe the best day of your life and the worst day of your life.
“I don’t really have a best day or a worst day. I have better days and not-so-good days. Generally, my better days are those spent doing fun activities with my family, like going to the beach, Five Islands, mud volcano, cinema, etc. I’m from a hot-footed family. I don’t like days when I see other people being mean to each other.”
This little interview reveals a child with a big imagination, a moral compass, and an open heart who is deeply in tune with herself. She can express her feelings and inspire and comfort others.
Writing is just one of many interests for Amayah, a child of boundless curiosity. She loves dancing, arts and crafts, and fashion design. In 2023, she competed in the Junior Calypso Monarch and won the East Zone title. From ballet and gymnastics to hip-hop and Afrobeat dance, Amayah’s creative pursuits are as varied as her dreams, which include becoming a police officer, chef, pilot, fashion designer, and teacher.
Her enthusiasm reflects a supportive environment where she’s encouraged to explore and be whatever she wants. Amayah’s journey as a young author is just beginning, and with her boundless imagination and curiosity, there’s no telling where it will take her. Whether she continues writing or explores one of her many other interests, Amayah has already shown that she has the talent and determination to succeed in whatever she chooses to do. Amayah’s journey reflects a larger movement of young people embracing the power of storytelling. Experts agree that reading and writing at a young age are crucial for academic success and personal development.
As renowned children’s author Roald Dahl once said, “The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
Reading and writing help children develop empathy, critical thinking, and creativity—skills essential for understanding and connecting with the world.
Psychologist Dr John Hutton of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital emphasises that “writing helps kids develop their executive function—their ability to plan, organise, and complete tasks—which is key to success in school and life.”
Writing allows children to express themselves and explore their imaginations while reading broadens their perspective by allowing them to experience the world through others’ eyes.
As children’s author Kate DiCamillo has said, “Reading should not be presented to children as a chore or duty. It should be offered as a precious gift.”
Encouraging young writers like Amayah also boosts self-confidence and fosters a love of learning. When children see their words come to life in stories, they realise that their voices matter. This empowerment can be life-changing.
By allowing young people to tell their stories, we help them develop a stronger sense of identity and agency.
Amayah is part of a growing wave of young authors making their voices heard in the literary world.
One notable example is Anaya Lee Willabus, who published her first book, The Day Mohan Found His Confidence, at eight. Anaya’s story highlights themes of perseverance and self-belief, which resonate deeply with readers of all ages.
Another young author, Zayn Ali Salman, wrote Little Lion’s Big Roar at just ten years old. His book explores themes of courage and friendship, showcasing the fresh perspective that young writers bring to storytelling.
Amayah will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in her footsteps as she continues to grow, proving that the world of children’s literature is richer for having young voices like hers.
In the words of J K Rowling, “There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place.”
Amayah Wallace-Aniebonam’s stories remind us of the magic of a child’s imagination.
Ira Mathur is a Guardian Media journalist and the winner of the 2023 OCM Bocas Prize for Non-Fiction for her memoir, Love The Dark Days. Website: www.irasroom.org
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