Another year has arrived, bringing with it World Book Day! My little one is filled with excitement as he meticulously crafts his costume weeks in advance. I find myself wondering which character he will select this time. Isn’t it wonderful to see children’s imaginations ignited by the world of literature? This curiosity led me to explore the origins of this fantastic tradition. In the end, he chose to dress up as Deku from My Hero Academia, complete with a full costume, green hair, and racing gloves – truly a superhero in every sense!
World Book Day is a global celebration that honours authors, illustrators, books, and most importantly, the joy of reading. It’s a day marked in over 100 countries, designated by UNESCO. The first World Book Day was celebrated on the 23rd of April 1995, a date shared with the passing of William Shakespeare and the birth or death of several other renowned authors. In the UK and Ireland, we celebrate it on the first Thursday of March, to let our children participate during the school term.
The charm of World Book Day is rooted in its mission to inspire children to uncover the joys of reading by providing them with their very own book. Schools participate in the celebration by hosting book fairs, organising reading-related activities, and encouraging kids to dress as their favorite characters from literature. Isn’t it delightful to witness the spark of creativity and a lifelong passion for reading ignited in them? Every year, my son eagerly looks forward to receiving a book token, which motivates children to visit a bookstore and select a book of their choice—what a fantastic initiative!
World Book Day is dear to my heart as it brings us together through our mutual passion for literature and storytelling. It highlights the vital role reading plays in personal growth and education, fostering a global community that values the transformative power of books. Regardless of its origins, World Book Day is a remarkable celebration that inspires young minds and champions literacy worldwide. It’s truly delightful to witness children and teachers participating in this wonderful occasion, showcasing their creativity with costumes and face paint! I absolutely love it!
So, when World Book Day comes around, don’t forget to delight in the creativity and happiness that books bring into our lives. Encourage your loved ones to dive into a new story, journey to far-off lands, and experience life through the eyes of different characters.
Remember, every story is a door to adventure, knowledge, and understanding, and World Book Day is the perfect time to celebrate this incredible journey.
Love and blessings,
Eliza x