By Medha Godbole Singh
Michael Rosen, a man who has donned many hats over the years – author, poet, radio presenter, activist, academic and more – will now have another unique feather in his cap. An inaugural Michael Rosen Day has been planned for 12 November 2024, starting at 10:00 a.m. Walker Books has picked up the gauntlet of this day, which marks the fiftieth anniversary of Rosen’s first book, Mind Your Own Business, and the thirty-fifth anniversary of We’re Going on A Bear Hunt. The day celebrating Rosen has been conceived for and focused on families, schools, nurseries, libraries and the book trade. Encouraging and empowering children to share books and ideas and enabling creativity is the essence of Michael Rosen Day.
The format of the proceedings is a free virtual live event in collaboration with literary charity Read for Good. It will be hosted by award-winning teacher-turned-rapper and social media star Jacob Mitchell, popularly known as MC Grammar. The event will be interactive and is intended for children of all ages. Participants can also send in questions for Rosen. Free downloadable resource packs, which include numerous tips, activities and ideas appropriate for use in school or at home, can be used to make the most of the day. Michael Rosen’s reading manifesto is the foundation for the activities suggested.
Some of the inspiring and thought-provoking points from the manifesto are:
Books give children language, thoughts, ideas and feeling.
We have to do what we can to put books into children’s hands.
Books show them places and times and cultures they may not have come across before.
Books help children walk in other people’s shoes, seeing things from someone else’s point of view.
We have to do what we can to find space and time for children to talk about books.
Books help children see that they are not alone.
Talking about the event, Michael Rosen stated that he hoped that this can be a day when we can celebrate any way in which we can put books into children’s hands. Similarly, Jane Winterbotham, Managing Director of Walker Books, was excited as she commented that stories and poems are at the heart of Walker Books, and Michael Rosen is at the heart of many of the greatest Walker books.
Teachers, parents and children can expect a day full of creativity, discovery and innovation through words – thanks to Michael Rosen. Those who wish to learn more can check out the website here.
Comentarios