There is truly no better job in the world than to encourage children to read and develop the same love for reading that I have. I devoured books as a child and was frequently found reading by torchlight when I was meant to have been asleep. I had ridden polar bears in the North, joined an academy for witches, eaten snozzcumbers, flown with dragons, jumped down rabbit holes and enjoyed secret gardens – all before secondary school! The imagination and experience from books can truly take you anywhere and I have the privilege of being in a position to encourage children to find their own worlds. Job satisfaction is through the roof when I have a student eagerly discussing their current book or asking for recommendations for their next read. I have increased borrowing in our school library three-fold and continue to develop and nourish a Reading for Pleasure ethos across the school. It is my aim to encourage and support every child in their reading journey, whether it is with a graphic novel, magazine, non-fiction book, manga, classic novel, young adult fiction or an e-book.
I was delighted to be asked to be a Tir na n-Og panellist as I never say no to reading new books. Being asked to read and explore books with a Welsh background and connection is a pleasure and I cannot wait to get started! It is exciting to see an abundance of great books being published, and these awards help to ensure that fantastic children’s literature is celebrated.
