What a wonderful community of readers we have at St John’s! I’m so excited to announce that 94% of our students completed the Chief Minister’s Reading Challenge this year. In  order to complete the challenge, students were required to read 30 books in the first two terms of this year. They were supported during their library lessons and in class, as well as encouraged to record the books they read at home. A total of 338 students completed the challenge, with a school total of more than 10000 books read. We will celebrate this fabulous achievement later in the year.

I am also really pleased to share with you that I have already achieved my 2024 reading goal to read my height in a year - and only halfway into the year! I’m going to keep recording my reading progress on the library door - maybe I can read my height twice this year? I’ll keep you updated! Displaying my reading habits in this way has been a great conversation starter for students to discuss their reading habits. Many students have decided to complete a similar challenge for themselves, and some are using my book list as a way to find recommendations. I have also noticed many students measuring themselves against my book stack, and tracking my progress by counting the books.

Unicorn Boy By Dave Roman

I loved this book! Unicorn Boy has action, black cats, the Gran Reaper, a trip to the underworld and defies gender stereotypes. A must have for a primary school aged graphic novel fan.

A Small Collection of Happinesses By Zana Fraillion and Stephen Michael King

I did not want this book to end! A small collection of happinesses indeed! A friendship grows between a young girl and an old woman. Yet another book that shows old people as interesting and strong, having lived eventful lives. 

Wurrtoo: The wombat who fell in love with the sky By Tylissa Elisara and Dylan Finney 

A little bit “Winnie the Pooh” and a little bit “Muddle-headed Wombat”, Wurrtoo is a lovely story about a wombat who falls in love with the sky and goes on an adventure to marry her. This book gave a wonderful explanation of sky country, which I have been discussing with the Year 5 and 6 students this term. Wurrtoo also learns important lessons on caring for Country.