In a world where our attention is constantly pulled by glowing screens, endless notifications, and the fleeting highs of social media, it’s easy to forget the quiet magic of reading a book.
There’s something profoundly human about holding a story in your hands, letting the words sink in, and feeling them ripple through your emotions—something no scroll or “like” can ever replicate.
For Paballo Seipei, founder of Paballo’s Book Club, books have been more than just stories—they have been companions, guides, and lifelines.
In this exclusive interview with Africa Jamz FM News, Paballo shares how reading helped shape her journey, why it matters so deeply in connecting with our emotions, and why, in an age dominated by social media, picking up a book can be one of the most radical acts of self-care and connection.
The power of books
One thing about Paballo is that she never stops talking about the “power of books.” Kicking off our chat, I asked her to share a moment when reading genuinely brought her comfort or helped her heal during a tough season of her life—and what she told me was both unexpected and deeply moving:
“There was a season in my life when everything felt uncertain, fragile, and overwhelming. I remember reading The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese during that time, and it became a quiet companion. The story, with its exploration of family, loss, and resilience across generations, reminded me that pain is part of a larger journey, one that can eventually bring understanding. Books like that don’t give instant answers, but they hold space for reflection, helping me breathe again and feel less alone,” said Paballo.
How reading becomes therapy for the soul
From her own experience, Paballo explains why reading has this incredible ability to reach deep into our emotions—almost like therapy, but through words:
“Reading allows us to slow down and really meet ourselves. When I read A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara, I couldn’t help but feel every emotion the characters experienced, and in doing so, I confronted parts of myself I often ignore. Books give words to feelings that sometimes have no voice. They allow you to process, reflect, and understand emotions in a way that can be deeply healing, almost like a quiet conversation with someone who truly listens,” said Paballo.
Why so many say ‘I’m Not a Reader’—And how to fall in love with books again
A lot of people claim they are “not readers.” Paballo dives into why she thinks that disconnection happens—and shares her thoughts on how we can help people rediscover the simple joy of reading in a world dominated by screens.
“Often, people stop reading because they haven’t found a story that resonates with them personally, or reading has been framed as a task rather than a joy. The constant pull of screens also makes stillness harder, and books require patience. The key is helping people find stories that speak to their lives, experiences, or imagination. Sharing books in communities, over coffee, or in book clubs makes reading a social, emotional experience, and that often reignites the love for it,” said Paballo.
Books that heal
After everything she had shared, I asked Paballo which books she would recommend for someone feeling lost, broken, or in need of healing—and why. Here’s how she responded:
“I recommend stories that honour both struggle and hope. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee is one, a story of endurance, dignity, and love through generations. The Island of Sea Women by Lisa See celebrates women’s strength, sisterhood, and resilience in the face of history’s hardships. These books don’t promise to fix everything, but they remind us of our own courage, the power of connection, and that healing can come slowly, through understanding and empathy,” said Paballo.
When a book changes a life
Paballo has shown me firsthand how her book club brings people together through stories. As we wrapped up, I asked her one last question: has she ever witnessed reading transform someone’s mindset, confidence, or emotional wellbeing? Her answer was as inspiring as the journey she’s creating—proof that the right book at the right time can truly change a life:
“Yes, many times. People come in quietly, unsure of themselves or saying they “are not readers.” Then, a story resonates with them, and suddenly they are sharing their thoughts, leading discussions, and reflecting on their own lives in new ways. I have seen members find strength and forgiveness in the pages of a book, rediscover hope, and embrace change. Books may be made of paper and words, but the impact they leave on someone’s heart is tangible and lasting,” said Paballo.
To connect with Paballo or learn more about joining her book club, find her on Instagram @paballoseipei: https://www.instagram.com/paballoseipei?igsh=MXBsbXMxYXF1bHpmMg==
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