Brrrrr, February is here, what a perfect time to curl up in a cozy blanket with a good book.
“I Love to Read Month" is celebrated each year in February to promote the love of reading, encourage writing, and share in the joy of literacy. I Love to Read Month has been observed for decades and has grown and evolved into a wonderful celebration for all ages, stages, and places to enjoy.
I Love to Read Month is a reminder of just how much books can do for us. Books can teach us, help us discover new worlds, spark innovation, conversation, reflection, personal growth, and are a valuable place for curiosities and exploration. Reading also helps people take a break from reality, fill their minds with imagination, and calm their nerves. Reading can also be used as a therapeutic tool for those who need it.
Personally, I have always had a passion for reading and have heart-full memories spending hours with all the Goosebumps books I could find, The Hobbit before it was cool, and anything a bit spooky; Fantasy and Science Fiction were my favourite.
The smell of a new book, the feeling of a paperback in my hands, and the excitement of meeting and adventuring alongside all of the characters I met has never left my heart.
With so much to gain from reading, I'd like share some ideas for ways you can celebrate I Love to Read Month:
Favourite Book Swap: Take your favourite book and swap it with a friend or family members; have fun sharing your thoughts after all parties have finished reading the book.
Personal Reading Challenges: Create a reading challenge for yourself by seeing how many books you can read in a year, or by reading a book in a genre you don't normally explore.
Book Reviews (a great one for teachers in the classroom): Have students rate books with stars and write reviews about why they liked or disliked a book.
Bookmark Exchange (also for teachers): Have students create bookmarks designed after a favourite book and exchange them with other children.
Read and Discuss the Same Book: Choose a book to read alongside a friend or family member. Set up a times to meet and discuss the story as you read through it together.
If you are not much of a reader, there are still plenty of ways to get into the celebration of literary. Writing a poem or short story, sitting in on a public book reading, and even writing a goofy seasonal song are fun ways to enjoy reading and writing.
A few minutes a day or one special time a week set aside for reading, writing, or connecting over a good book are great ways to enjoy the benefits of literacy for yourself, and others.
Happy Reading Everyone!
Sincerely,
Rachelle Wood
School Trustee – Centre Ward
St. James-Assiniboia School Division
For more information on Trustee Wood, visit her bio.
