It’s World Book Day, an occasion aimed at promoting reading for pleasure. The theme for 2024 is “Read Your Way”, recognising that different people enjoy books in different ways.
These people in Cardiff reflected on what books mean to them…
Journalism student Jorja Kyei reflects on some books which have been important in her life…
I remember World Book Day fondly from my time in first and middle school. We were encouraged to dress up as our favourite characters from our favourite books. Even from a young age, I loved seeing my classmates express themselves creatively. Now I am older, I fondly look back at memories of my mum putting together the most amazing costumes for me.
There was a special rolodex of books in the library on World Book Day’s that were not regularly available. This was particularly exciting because it encouraged us to expand our reading and continue enjoying all types of literature.
The theme for World Book Day 2024 is ‘Read Your Way’. For me, reading is usually in the form of non-fiction books that will inform and motivate me to continue with my writing and activism work. One book that has evoked emotion and inspiration in myself is “Voices of The Windrush Generation; The real story told by the people themselves” by David Matthews.
As a student journalist that is particularly interested in sharing unheard voices, this book has been such an impactful read. I have never read a book that is written in such a format. The book follows Matthews as he interviews people and their families from the Windrush Generation in a long form journalism format. It combines the personal diary type of writing you find in books such as “The Colour Purple” with an interviewer who shows genuine interest and the ability to resonate with the storytellers.
For others, reading is an escape from reality. Truly nothing compares to finding yourself immersed in a breathtaking and perplexing fiction. It is magical.
The World Book Day website explains the importance of reading for pleasure on their website: “Our mission is to promote reading for pleasure, offering every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own. Reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success – more than their family circumstances, their parents’ educational background or their income. We want to see more children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with a life-long habit of reading for pleasure and the improved life chances this brings them.”