National Literacy Day: When a Book Starts a Conversation
National Literacy Day, celebrated on 8th September, is a chance to recognise the power of reading and the opportunities that literacy can create. Reading can build confidence, open doors to learning and, perhaps most importantly, bring people together.
Our recent book club with our women’s groups was a wonderful example of how a shared story can become the starting point for connection, conversation and reflection.
When reading brings people together
Reading doesn’t always have to be a solitary activity. One of the great things about books is that they can bring people together, and our recent book club with our women’s groups was a brilliant example of this.
The group chose The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, a psychological thriller which generated plenty of discussion. There were theories, shocked reactions and very different opinions about the characters particularly around who could really be trusted.
The women were keen to read the book, particularly following the recent movie release, and there was a real sense of excitement about sharing the experience together.
One of the best things about a book club is that everyone can read the same story, yet everyone notices something different.
The conversations around the characters, twists and unsettling atmosphere made for a fun and thoughtful discussion. There was even an opportunity to challenge each other about whether we had actually finished the book!
Stories can open difficult conversations
For us, the book club was also about creating a safe opportunity to explore some of the darker themes within the story.
The Housemaid contains themes that may be difficult or triggering for some readers. Some of the women in our groups have experienced challenges that resonate with themes explored in the book.
Sometimes, talking about difficult subjects through fiction can provide a little distance. A story can create a starting point for a conversation about experiences, relationships and emotions without requiring someone to immediately talk about their own circumstances.
The themes around credibility and the way the story explores perceptions of victims and perpetrators prompted a particularly thoughtful discussion. Fiction can give people the space to consider difficult issues from different perspectives, question assumptions and listen to experiences and opinions that may be different from their own.
Most importantly, the book gave everyone something to talk about.
Literacy is about more than reading words
National Literacy Day reminds us that literacy is not simply about being able to read. It is about having the confidence and opportunity to engage with the world around us.
A book can provide comfort, curiosity and escapism. It can support learning and build confidence. It can strengthen relationships and help people feel connected to others.
And sometimes, it can help us find the words for conversations that might otherwise feel difficult.
A book can be the beginning of something.
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Our Women’s Service operates across Greater Lincolnshire and delivers a variety of support and courses within a confidential and safe environment.
For more information about the services that LAT provides to women, please visit our website here.
