Book Day 2021 takes BIS Hanoi by storm

The school was awash with every colour as books were brought to life by an abundance of incredible costumes. Characters from all genres descended upon the school and there was an energetic buzz around the building.

This year’s theme was ‘The Reading Spectrum’, aimed at promoting non-fiction and poetry, alongside the already well-loved fiction. The focus of the day was to broaden children’s reading horizons and for all children to explore new types of texts that they may be less familiar with. Our explosive headliner was the performance poetry showcase.

Sharing the love of fiction books, the children presented a favourite book/character and inspired their classmates with a list of books they now want to read. Children across the age ranges were exploring new texts in a variety of different ways, including speaking and listening presentations, snuggle up and read, book reviews, a bookmark competition and the classic - story time.

Our inquisitive fact-finders delved deeper into a variety of non-fiction texts. Classrooms were brimming with new knowledge and children were eager to share their new learning. Teachers shared books on topics that were new to the children. The children excitedly absorbed the new information, asking inquisitive questions to deepen their understanding. Teachers expertly demonstrated how non-fiction can be both informative and enjoyable. The success of the day has established non-fiction as a staple of the reading diet.

Perfectly performed poetry echoed down every corridor as the children delighted in reproducing some of the most well-known poems. The children worked incredibly hard throughout the day to learn and re-enact poems, delivering electric performances. Teachers were wowed by the quality all the way from F1 to year 6. There were so many poetry superstars that we could have the very next Julia Donaldson or Michael Rosen here at BIS.

Reading sits at the heart of both learning and enjoyment. Although it is one whole year before we have Book Day again, the children now realise that every day is Book Day and reading is for life.

Ms Jasmine Reilly & Mr Oliver Wray

Primary Teachers/ English Leaders