National Reading Day

January 23, 2012 was National Reading Day in the US, a day to help encourage children to become lifelong readers.

In honor of this event, the editors of Common Sense Media, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology, compiled lists of their favorite books. We were on holiday but I still wanted to share this great website of book lists for various age groups.

It's never too late to read great books!

Around the World in 5 Minutes

I found this great video on DogoNews (one of my favorite news sites for kids) Speeding Around the World in under 5 Minutes This time lapse video is made of 6,237 photos taken by Kien Lam during his year-long trip around the world. It includes the 17 countries he visited using 19 planes, 58 buses, and 18 boats. It is such a cool idea that I thought our very well-traveled staff and students would enjoy it.

DogoNews is an online newspaper for children. DOGO (pronounced Doe-Go not Do-Go) means young or small in Swahili. The site provides a safe, interactive environment for children to learn about current events through short, simple articles that include photos and videos. There are resources for teachers. You can sign up for a weekly newsletter and create a customized, online newspaper. Students can create an avatar, make comments, and bookmark articles.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition

The Narnia series is still one of my favorites. In grade 4, it is what really got me hooked on reading. My teacher, Sister Marcella, read The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe to my class and I was sold. I read the rest of the series on my own within weeks.

Currently on display at Marina Bay Sands until the end of February is The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition. I haven't seen it yet but I have heard it is fantastic. You can actually step into the wardrobe! With the ticket sale proceeds going to The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund, it is definitely worth a visit.

"Step into a world of fantasy based on the blockbuster films and C.S. Lewis’ beloved fictional books. View artifacts from C.S. Lewis’ personal study, the famous attic, a replica of the White Witch’s Throne, and many other interactive and engaging displays.

Come experience this magical holiday event that will be sure to captivate your senses, mind, and imagination."

The Joy of Books

A big thank to Annabel Howard for sharing this video with me. While I read many books from our fabulous library, I have to admit that I do most of my personal reading on a Kindle or iPad these days but there's nothing quite like a real book.

Enjoy!