Having supported the establishment of the National Centre for the Children’s Book more than 20 years ago, and serving as a trustee today, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary impact books can have on young minds. One of the most remarkable experiences is watching Seven Stories’ visitors centre come alive, as our amazing Storycatchers illustrate the building through the imagination of the books they read. The engagement and captivation of the children in those moments is extraordinary – a vivid reminder that reading is not just a skill, but a doorway to wonder, creativity, and possibility.
Reading opens doors to worlds beyond our own. Through stories, children explore experiences, cultures, and perspectives far removed from their own. They learn empathy, develop critical thinking, and imagine possibilities that stretch well beyond the classroom. And these benefits do not stop in childhood – adults continue to broaden their understanding, challenge assumptions, and find inspiration in the written word.
The joy of reading is immediate and enduring. There is a unique magic in turning a page, losing oneself in a story, and discovering worlds previously unknown. Books comfort, delight, and provoke thought. They offer adventure, laughter, reflection – and sometimes even the courage to see the world differently.
Access is vital. Initiatives like the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which ensures that every child has the chance to receive books from birth, are transformative because they make reading a right, not a privilege. Dolly Parton’s vision underlines a simple truth: a love of reading should be within every child’s reach. By putting books into the hands of children, we nurture curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Equally important is the presence of the National Centre for the Children’s Book, right here in the Ouseburn Valley. Having been part of its creation from the very start, I can attest to how invaluable it has become. Seven Stories is a national treasure – a place where literature comes alive, where workshops spark creativity, and where Newcastle is positioned as a centre of imagination and culture. Supporting this centre is not just about civic pride – it is an investment in the next generation of readers, writers, and thinkers.
In today’s world, dominated by screens and constant distraction, the immersive experience of reading is under pressure. The quiet focus required to read a book is a rare and precious thing. It develops patience, attention, and reflection – skills as vital now as ever.
Supporting reading is not merely an educational priority – it is a social, cultural, and moral one. Every book shared, every story discovered, every Storycatcher session, and every Imagination Library book delivered is an investment in the future. Seeing the sparkle in children’s eyes as they engage with stories reminds us of the transformative power of the written word.
Books do more than fill shelves – they shape minds, nurture empathy, and inspire action. Newcastle is fortunate to have a national centre on our doorstep and initiatives that bring books to every child. Let us celebrate and support these remarkable resources, and ensure that the joy, knowledge, and imagination they foster continue to enrich lives for generations to come.