Grade One learner Mimi Verster’s hopes for more books to read were answered when the NEWS donated some of the books from its children’s book drive to her. Some of the books from the children’s book drive were donated by Bedfordview resident Gabriel Quirke.
The donation was given to the seven-year-old Laerskool Oosterkruin learner on August 23 after her mother approached the NEWS.
Samantha Verster said she learned about the #WeRead Caxton Cares campaign to promote reading.
“I saw the campaign and thought it was an amazing project. Mimi started Grade One this year and they started reading. She loves it with her whole heart.”
“School had a huge impact on her as we are challenged to read a story each week and this motivated her to do her best.”
Samantha highlighted Mimi’s eagerness to read and remembered how proud Mimi was when she came home and told her family that she could read.
“It was a very cute memory for the family.”
Samantha said from a young age Mimi was always fascinated with books and pictures and first started reading at pre-school.
“Even though she hasn’t mastered reading yet and still struggles with some words, she loves it and hasn’t given up.”
Also read: #WeRead: Prioritise reading for this year’s Book Week and Fair
In the Verster household, Mimi’s parents encourage her to read as much as possible, and like her daughter, Samantha has a strong interest in reading.
Mimi said one of the first books she read on her own was titled Sammy, which was also one of her mother’s first books.
Samantha is proud of the progress her daughter has made.
“I believe reading is knowledge and knowledge is power. We are aiming to enhance Mimi’s reading skills and this is why we have started to take such a keen interest in helping her advance herself.”
Samantha believes children should read as much as possible.
She said reading has assisted Mimi put words together and identify them on sight.
“I think what Mimi enjoys most about reading is piecing the story together and finishing it with an understanding.”
Samantha said since Mimi is still a beginner reader the family encourages her to read fairy tales and beginner books.
Also read: #WeRead: Children talk about their love for reading
One of Mimi’s favourite books at this stage is The Little Mermaid.
“I love mermaids,” explained Mimi.
Samantha said although Mimi has not written one of her own stories yet, she believes Mimi will start as she develops her skills and is exposed to more books.
#WeRead #ReadBecause #CaxtonCares #BuyABook
