Growing up in a country town in the 1970s and 1980s, I had plenty of time on my hands. Books provided endless entertainment and opened doors to worlds far beyond my own. I travelled to Narnia and dreamed of Turkish Delight long before I had ever tasted it. I joined the Famous Five on their adventures and wished my cocker spaniel was more like Timmy. I reread Roald Dahl’s Boy countless times, trying to imagine life in an English boarding school, so different from my own childhood.
While today’s students have far more options competing for their attention, reading continues to flourish in the Junior School. Like me, the girls are drawn to stories that spark their imagination, introduce them to new ideas and take them beyond their everyday experiences. Reading allows them to follow their interests, exercise choice and discover books that reflect their curiosity and passions.
Books That Inspire and Engage
At Meriden, reading is highly valued. Our libraries, thoughtfully curated by Mrs Pascale and Mrs Whitford, are welcoming spaces where girls can read, explore and share their love of literature. Our librarians, the girls’ teachers and often their peers know their reading interests and are skilled at connecting them with books they will enjoy.
Book Week at Meriden
Book Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate this love of reading, and I am grateful to Mrs Pascale, Mrs Whitford and Mrs Wong for their organisation of the events. The joy on display at the Junior School today was a wonderful reminder of the important place stories hold in our community. Seeing students and staff, including Mrs Brown, embrace the spirit of the day by dressing up sent a strong message that reading is valued and celebrated.
Nurturing a Love of Books
I would encourage parents to read daily with their children and, as they grow older, to talk with them about what they are reading. When we read with children, we are choosing to pause the many demands of life and spend time together. In doing so, we not only nurture a love of books, but also create opportunities for conversation, connection and shared discovery.
For parents looking for recommendations, you are always welcome to visit the Lingwood and Selim Libraries. In addition, the Children’s Book Council of Australia, BookTrust and Common Sense Media all provide age-appropriate book recommendations for young readers.
Thank you to all families for your support of Book Week and for encouraging a love of reading at home.