A South African parent’s creative book covering method using recycled KFC bags goes viral, inspiring many with her ingenuity.
WITH the summer holidays over, parents across South Africa embrace the familiar chaos of back-to-school preparations.
This includes lengthy stationery lists, shopping trips, and, perhaps most daunting of all, the covering of numerous school books.
However, one clever internet user has turned this chore into a viral moment, showcasing an innovative approach to book covering that has captured the attention of netizens.
Caroline (@carolinerathabe) recently took to social media platform X to share her unique solution for covering school books – using recycled KFC paper bags.
Done covering the books, a di bulwe dikolo pic.twitter.com/EccQBAKdot
— Caroline (@Carolinerathabe) January 8, 2025
Her post quickly garnered attention, featuring pictures of neatly covered books proudly adorned with the iconic chicken brand’s packaging.
“Done covering the books, a di bulwe dikolo (let the schools open),” she captioned the images, marking her accomplishment with pride.
The creativity behind Caroline’s book coverings has resonated with many in Mzansi, generating an outpouring of support and admiration.
Comments flooded in, with users applauding her ingenuity. One user, @KganyaShop94321, lauded her for being the “Queen of recycling,” while @_Lembz cheekily remarked, “Looks finger-lickin’ good, well done.”
Queen of recycling. This is beautiful
— Khanya Herbal Shop (@KganyaShop94321) January 8, 2025
While Caroline’s innovative method received its fair share of praise, it also opened the door for some playful jests.
@GerBearMonaz humorously suggested that her children might end up with names like “Streetwise 2” and “Streetwise Pap“, adding a light-hearted spin on the situation.
Your kids will be name “Streetwise 2” and “Streetwise Pap”. Then yall wonder why bana ba tshaba skolo 🥺
— Gen. M Morolong-Monamodi, Esq. (@GerBearMonaz) January 8, 2025
Another user, @RyanBTaylor23, declared: “This is genius, no lies, I would say it’s premium, trademarked book covering. Now available at your local @WaltonsSA,” highlighting the popularity of this unusual method of preparation.
This is genius, no lies, I would say it's premium trade marked book covering. Now available at your local @WaltonsSA
— BoringHighBoy🇿🇦 (@RyanBTaylor23) January 8, 2025
Caroline’s viral moment underscores not only the resourcefulness inherent in South African communities but also a broader trend of embracing sustainability through recycling.
As parents juggle the demands of back-to-school season, this refreshing twist on traditional book covering serves as a reminder that necessity breeds innovation – and sometimes, a bit of humour – in even the most mundane tasks.
