Marguerite Poland is a South African writer. She writes books for both children and adults. Her 1979 book The Mantis And The Moon helped to establish a market for indigenous children’s books in English in South Africa. She has written 11 children’s books. The Mantis and the Moon and Woodash Stars both received the Percy FitzPatrick Award, the first two books to receive this award. Poland’s novels for adults have won several prestigious awards. A Sin Of Omission was awarded with the 2021 Sunday Times Literary Award. Fluent in Xhosa and isiZulu, Poland’s work is often inspired by African oral traditions. On 28 April 2016, the Order of Ikhamanga – Silver (OIS) was conferred on Marguerite Poland‚ for “her excellent contribution to the field of indigenous languages, literature and anthropology”.
Marguerite Poland is a South African writer. She writes books for both children and adults. Her 1979 book The Mantis And The Moon helped to establish a market for indigenous children’s books in English in South Africa. She has written 11 children’s books. The Mantis and the Moon and Woodash Stars both received the Percy FitzPatrick Award, the first two books to receive this award. Poland’s novels for adults have won several prestigious awards. A Sin Of Omission was awarded with the 2021 Sunday Times Literary Award. Fluent in Xhosa and isiZulu, Poland’s work is often inspired by African oral traditions. On 28 April 2016, the Order of Ikhamanga – Silver (OIS) was conferred on Marguerite Poland‚ for “her excellent contribution to the field of indigenous languages, literature and anthropology”.
Q&A Session with 2026 Dublin Literary Award shortlisted author Brigitte Giraud, author of Live Fast, exploring the inspirations behind her novel.
VideoMay 12 2026
Laurent Binet – Perspective(s) Q&A
Check out our Q&A with Laurent Binet, author of shortlisted title Perspective(s), as he discusses the inspirations behind his work and reflects on the role libraries have played in shaping his journey
VideoMay 8 2026
Ali Smith – Gliff Q&A
Shortlisted author Ali Smith discusses the creative inspirations behind Gliff and reflects on the significance of libraries throughout her reading and writing life in our latest Q&A.
