Book Week is brought to us by the Children's Book Council of Australia and aims to bring children and books together. Schools, libraries, booksellers, authors, illustrators and children celebrate Australian children's literature through book parades and amazing displays. This year I got to experience Book Week from all avenues being a Teacher, Mum and Author. At times it has been more than hectic, plaiting my daughter's hair and dressing her up in a Frozen costume whilst running out the door for an Author Presentation is always fun!
So why make the effort for Book Week? Why should we bother dressing up as book characters and celebrating books, literacy and reading?
Well I think the answer to that question is quite simple in today's modern age. In a world full of technology, iphones, ipads and social media, the children of today have a very different perception of the magic of books than the past generations. The power of the two most important things found in a book: WORDS and IMAGINATION should not be underestimated. If we can inspire children to develop a love for reading, then we can inspire lifelong learning.
Book Week is a wonderful opportunity for educators, parents, authors, illustrators, libraries, schools and children to share their love for reading. As an educator, I have the opportunity to help students learn how to read by teaching sounds and reading strategies. As a parent, I have the opportunity to read to my children regularly and share my love of reading. As an author, I have the opportunity to share my knowledge and enthusiasm about books and writing. How lucky are we to have the opportunity to celebrate books, literacy and reading in the form of Book Week!
So when the stress of Book Week approaches and creating book character costumes stretches every creative and patient bone in your body... remember that we are helping develop the learning of future generations through the love of books.