“But if I am not the same, the next question is ‘Who in the world am I?’ Ah, that’s the great puzzle!” – Alice in Wonderland
When I think back to the books that truly had an impact on me as a child, the first book that springs to mind is Alice in Wonderland. At age seven I was the same age as Alice and was beginning to delve into the world around me with avid curiosity, stepping into unknown territory just like Alice did as she stepped into the rabbit hole.
Just like Alice, so many young children are entering an unfamiliar world and trying to find their place within it which isn’t always easy. Especially when it can feel very lonely. This is why encouraging your child to read from an early age is so important. Instead of being faced with unanswered questions, they will have a sense of direction and identity.
Whether it’s Alice in Wonderland or Harry Potter, your child will feel they are growing up with their favourite characters and as a keen reader, I can tell you there is no greater pleasure than discovering yourself within the words of another.
By Emily White
Insightful and very true