What better way to spark imagination than a day devoted not just to stories, but to reflecting on the magic they awaken within us?
International Children’s Book Day, held every year on
April 2nd to mark the birthday of the renowned storyteller Hans Christian
Andersen, is a celebration designed to spark off imagination and creativity in
young readers. The occasion encourages children to dive into stories, explore
new worlds, and experience reading as an exciting, interactive adventure.
First launched in 1966 by the International Board on
Books for Young People (IBBY), the event highlights the powerful charm of books
and their ability to inspire a love of reading. Each year, one country is
chosen to share a special message with children around the globe, along with a
beautifully illustrated poster to mark the celebration.
This year Canada had the honour, represented by the poet Richard van Camp, and his poem “Stories are wings that help you soar every day.” (https://www.ibby.org/awards-activities/activities/international-childrens-book-day/2022-icbd-canada)
His poem was read aloud to fifth graders who reflected
on it and, separated in groups, brainstormed relevant ideas trying to think of
ways in which books transform our lives.
To add a pinch of suspense the whole process took the
form of a competition since each team read the statements they had come up with
and took a point only for the ones which were not included in the list of
another group. The groups had to tick the common sentences so as to avoid repletion
during their presentation.
Finally they made a class poster with their ideas. Together,
their ideas formed a tapestry showing just how deeply stories can kindle
creativity!
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