Dad from Dudley gains reading confidence
The Six Book Challenge was, this year, promoted in one of Dudley's adult learning centres as part of the Skills for Life literacy programme. An organised visit to the library prompted ten individuals to sign up for the Challenge.
Chris Atwood, Service Development Librarian {Inclusion}, Dudley who worked closely with the group says "I like to read a little from one of the "Quick Reads" and get the learners to discuss a particular word or passage and ask them their interpretation of the meaning or their feelings or what they would do if they were in a similar situation. Then I always leave off at a pertinent point and insist that if they want to know what happens then they will have to read the book. This prompted a discussion a young man and I told him that the best way to improve his spelling, grammar, punctuation etc was to read."
Although never 'being into reading' the realisation that reading with his children would strengthen his bond with them inspired and motivated this young man to take up the Challenge. With Chris' support and encouragement, he went on to complete the Six Book Challenge and is now able to read more confidently to his children - a task he found very daunting until he took part in this initiative.
