The Wollongong Living Books program brings to the community a collection of human ‘books’ that represent a diverse range of backgrounds and life experiences.
Our students have enjoyed listening to Living Books several times at school.
There truly is a diverse range of ‘books’ on offer and wandering from group to group, it is evident how interested our students are in learning from these experiences. It is such a joy to be in a school that works well with our wider community and has staff who are always looking to build connections. These experiences go well beyond any classroom lesson and will be truly memorable for students. We also hope it encourages them to read widely.
creative commons licensed ( BY-NC-SA ) flickr photo shared by Darcy Moore
Originating in Denmark, this great literacy program encourages students to enjoy stories, celebrate diversity and genuinely experience interactive learning by informally chatting and asking questions of the ‘books’. Just recently, students learnt about journeys from Liberia and Vietnam to Wollongong. They also got to do a workshop with Sadoc, a local hip hop and break dancer from Burundi who told his story to students too.
There was also an opportunity to experience a food-tasting workshop. The Burmese noodles were popular.
creative commons licensed ( BY-NC-SA ) flickr photo shared by Darcy Moore
We will continue to welcome ‘the living books’ regularly to our school. The aim of the program – to build understanding through conversation between different groups in the community – is certainly being achieved.
You can make contact to organise a visit your school here. I highly recommend that you do and I suspect the benefits are far-reaching, plant a tree important. This brief video will give you more of an idea what is on offer.
Andrew FitzSimons
A wonderful day at our school. Part of a serious effort to broaden their perspective of the globe.