In this first article in our new series by Ndah Mbawa from Happier Every Chapter, Ndah reflects upon the themes and inclusive bestsellers they curated at the start of the academic year.
It seems British weather has finally come to its senses. We are back to business as usual. All things being equal, by now summer’s warmth should have long yielded to the crispness of autumn. That’s not been the case. The Great British weather failed to get the memo that it needs to be hot but not when kids and educators are stuck in classrooms and parents have to endure sweaty school runs.
Whatever the case, it’s that time again – back to school. A season of fresh beginnings, renewed friendships, and exciting possibilities. For students, parents, and educators alike, this annual transition carries a unique blend of anticipation and nostalgia. A return to routine; backpacks filled with fresh supplies, cardigans marked with names and a prayer to remain in our possession but more than anything, curious minds prepared to soak in knowledge. They are thrilled to be reuniting with friends after a break. Along with the challenge of new subjects this creates a sense of growth and exploration.
Parents often find themselves juggling emotions – pride in their child’s growth, concerns about challenges ahead, and the bittersweet realisation that time is passing quickly. Pretty quickly, preparing lunches, attending parent-teacher meetings, and supporting their child’s academic journey become their daily rhythms.
Educators on their part, armed with lesson plans and a passion for teaching, embark on a mission to inspire and empower the next generation. Their classrooms transform into havens of learning, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
For us at Happier Every Chapter, it’s a welcome opportunity to pause and reflect on the stories shared and transformations witnessed during the last academic year. Looking back at the case studies from our partner schools, we feel proud and honoured to have been part of the story for many children as they journey towards better literacy attainment through a love of reading. In today’s blog, we look back on some of the books and themes curated for some of our Little Literates (4-7yrs) boxes which went to partner schools and families last year.
Our September 2022 box themed New Beginnings, was a delightful literary journey bringing fresh perspectives into the world of reading for children starting or returning to school. The two standout titles, The Great Big Book of Friends and First Day at Cow School encapsulated the essence of this theme. The Great Big Book of Friends, a truly inclusive book by Mary Hoffman warmed hearts with its tales of companionship, reminding us of the importance of knowing how to build friendships and relationships in our own new beginnings; a worthwhile lesson for children and adults alike. Meanwhile, First Day at Cow School a charming tale of courage and adaptation, was perfect for the children facing a new chapter in life. It was not just a collection of books; it also included as usual worksheets to deepen comprehension and gifts to make unboxing more exciting.
The Beauty in Black History themed box shipped in you guessed it, October! A remarkable tribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the African diaspora and African American History during the month of October. With bestsellers like Granddad Mandela and Spreading My Wings education and self-care blended seamlessly and perfectly embodied of the spirit of Black History not being just about the past, but also the beauty of the present and the promise of the future. Granddad Mandela offered a poignant glimpse into Nelson Mandela’s life through the eyes of his granddaughter teaching resilience and the power of forgiveness, while Spreading My Wings inspires with Maya Angelou’s empowering words.
As we take steps to start the new academic year right, it is important to remember to make inclusive and representative stories a central part of the learning journey. Back to school signifies more than just a return to academic pursuits; it symbolizes the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the uncertainties of life, we embrace each new school year with hope and determination, knowing that education remains a beacon of opportunity and growth.
Happier Every Chapter, is a family run literacy service working with parents, carers and educators who desire for their children and pupils to be nurtured to read for pleasure and develop a better global outlook. We curate of diverse, inclusive and representative bestsellers which are aligned to the school topics/curriculum and delivered as monthly subscriptions for individual children or book bundles to diversify whole school libraries
We are passionate about reading for pleasure and better literacy outcomes as a tool for social justice and better social mobility. Partner schools find our monthly subscriptions to be a great targeted intervention for children in receipt of pupil premium. Browse our bookshop which offers a large selection of bestselling books in themed collections.
For schools who want to audit their library collection and identify gaps in representation, we offer library diversity audits.
Our Creative writing workshops/author visits for KS1 & KS2 pupils are popular with pupils and school leaders alike as a way to get children not just motivated to read for pleasure but to write for pleasure too.
