Vandana Bhagra, Shimla
After a period of almost two years, Keekli Book Club held its first offline meet with an amazing group of kids who were eager to share their experience of the lockdown and how day one of school was yet another memory which evoked mixed emotions and reactions. Engaging the children in conversation, Ms Chaudhry spoke about how we should have a powerful imagination and be observant of our surroundings. As each person, each entity, each passing moment shares something with us which we can weave in our stories as elements. In attendance were Advika, Stavya, Anadya, Gauri, Kavya, Rajshree, Shivangi and Varahi.
She further spoke about inculcating a habit of reading daily – any time, any hour – an important aspect that children should adopt in their lives. Books and reading should be an integral part of growing up, and children should read a mix of genres covering from mystery to reality to fairy adventures. Children too were very expressive about their interests and what they wanted to read, as well as enthusiastic to work on their new assignments, that is, writing stories.
The second half of the session was quite interesting as children were divided into two groups and were given three key words – apples, kite and pirates – to come up with a story and narrate it. Two amazing stories came off these and just showcased how well children can visualise and confidently speak out.
The meeting ended on a happy note with a promise of many more such engaging sessions and a discussion of the latest book by Ms Chaudhry which the children will soon receive.
Great job Team Keekli. Congratulations. keep up the amazing work👍