About Dog Eared Books
Making quality education accessible, one book at a time
Bonolo Nong
Founder & Visionary
Grade 10 Learner
The Story Behind Dog Eared Books
At just 15 years old, Bonolo Nong saw a problem that many South African families face every year: the crushing cost of school textbooks. As a Grade 10 learner herself, she witnessed firsthand how her parents struggled to afford the books she needed.
The idea came to her during a conversation with a classmate who lost their textbook and was sharing a single textbook with the other student in class. "Why do we throw away or let our books gather dust when other students desperately need them?" she thought. That simple question sparked a beautiful vision.
Bonolo realized that the books sitting unused on shelves across South Africa represented more than just paper and ink—they were opportunities for learning, gateways to dreams, and keys to futures waiting to be unlocked.
With determination beyond her years, she created Dog Eared Books—a platform where students and families could buy and sell used textbooks, making quality education accessible to everyone. What started as an idea grew into a mission to transform how South African families access educational resources.
Today, Dog Eared Books strives to help thousands of families save money while reducing waste and building a community of learners supporting learners.
Our Mission
To make quality education accessible to every South African student by creating a sustainable marketplace for used textbooks.
Our Vision
A future where no student is held back from their dreams because they can't afford the books they need to succeed.
Our Community
Students helping students. Families supporting families. Together, we're building a more equitable education system.
Our Values
Accessibility
Education should be accessible to all, regardless of financial background. We're committed to breaking down barriers.
Sustainability
Every reused book is one less book in a landfill. We believe in caring for our planet while helping students.
Community
We're building more than a marketplace—we're creating a community where students support each other's success.
Innovation
From a student's idea to a growing platform, we believe in young people's power to create change.
Join Our Mission
Whether you're buying or selling, every transaction helps make education more accessible for South African students.