Today South Africa celebrates World Book Day 2018, recognising that books are vitally important for young children and valuable for their development. Yet, while we are entrenched in the importance of literacy, education and languages, it is important to remember that reading is, in itself, a joy and delight that feeds children’s hearts and souls, as well as their minds.

Last year we introduced you to Baby Riav (see article here), a tiny South African baby who’d been in the Neonatal, Intensive Care Unit for 28 days, and who was soothed by books and the sound of his parents as they read to him. How pleased we were to hear back from Riav’s Mum with the latest news of his progress and to hear that he still loves reading!
And just in time for World Book Day 2018.

Lest we forget the incredible power of reading, let us not forget too, that stories are powerful tools for healing and growth.

Says Nivashni:

“Riav is 15 months old. Can you believe it!
I have attached a few pictures of his reading adventures which I hope will make you smile.”

(And smile we did!)

“It’s been a wonderful 15-month journey of curiosity, mischief and reading for Riav, ” she continues.

“When he learned how to reach for items, we had to rearrange our bookshelf as he wanted to pull out his books on his own. We now have his books on the lowest shelf to allow him to take what he ones. Often he sits with several books at once.”

“His birthday in December gave his library a boost as friends and families, who follow us on social media and recognised his love for books, gifted him with at least 20 books.

“The best part about Riav’s love for books is that it has given birth to a new reader in our home.

“While I am a bookworm, my husband is not. He admits that the last book he really read was his set work at school more than two decades ago.

“But every evening, Riav climbs onto his lap with a book for him to read to him.

“Together they have travelled across seas via Riav’s book on boats, searched for pumpkins, and even joined Peter Rabbit on his adventures.”

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of
this exciting journey and for sharing your love
or reading, Nivashni and Riav.

Are you a reading parent with a story to tell?

Contact us at: Puku.co.za

or via email: contenteditor@puku.co.za

We’d love to hear your stories.