“There is no such thing as a child who hates to read; there are only children who have not found the right book.” – Frank Serafini
Promoting reading for the love of reading is one of the main objectives of the Family Reading Circle —- a beloved, popular read-aloud interactive series presented by Bocas Lit Fest in partnership with Let’s Read since 2022.
These family-centred events bring books alive for children, setting the foundation for a lifelong love of reading, and helping build crucial language, comprehension, and emotional skills.
The Family Reading Circle rolls into St. David’s RC Primary School in Kelly Village on Saturday 20 June as part of Bocas Lit Fest’s ongoing outreach into communities throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
The school’s library is one of the ongoing projects by literary advocacy group Let’s Read, who has been working with primary schools nationwide to fill libraries and consequently the minds of children with inspirational, relatable stories.
“St. David’s RC loves their library!” says Suzette Cadiz, co-founder of Let’s Read. “Besides the classes’ weekly library schedule, the Principal works her magic whenever I visit, and all classes visit the library for a read aloud, even Standard 5! In February this year, increasing interest and borrowing was noted.”
Family Reading Circle’s read-aloud interactive story sessions expose children — and their parents and guardians — to a wide selection of classic, popular children’s books, curated by Let’s Read. These experiences encourage families to read together and connect at home too. The sessions are typically held at The Writers Centre, Bocas’ headquarters, but has been expanding to other locations including St. Helena last year, and a Festival Edition in May during the annual Bocas Lit Fest.
In keeping with the mission of celebrating and promoting local children’s writers and stories, the featured writer for the event at St. David’s is Oprah C. Francis. Oprah is the creative talent behind the children’s book series “The Adventures of Marvin the Mischievous Manicou” and an advocate for culturally-driven children’s literature. She is also a corporate communicator with a Master’s Degree in Media, Communications and Public Relations, and works actively to foster a greater sense of cultural pride and appreciation for local content through fun and creative learning.
Family Reading Circle is free and open to the public and welcomes children 12 and under with parents and caregivers.
