Capital gears up for a read alert

[1]

A treat is on its way for city’s book lovers. The National Book Trust (NBT) is starting a unique weekend book bazaar, with the aim of promoting reading habit among youngsters.

In its first leg, Delhi University’s Sri Venkateswara College will play the host, but NBT is also planning 30 book fairs across schools in Delhi/NCR to inculcate reading habits among schoolchildren.
“Often youngsters don’t have anything constructive to do on weekends. And in the metros particularly, they spend most of their time at shopping malls. The idea behind this initiative is to introduce them to the world of literature, giving it a festive flavour, where we will also put up eating outlets and other interactive sessions to keep them occupied,” says M.A. Sikander, director NBT.
While the move has been appreciated, many like veteran author of children’s books, Manorama Jafa believes much ideation is required while formulating such activities. “Unless there is enough publicity, what’s the point of holding such fests? They should have enough books for all age groups, particularly the younger lot. Importance should be given to storytelling sessions and picture books and more qualified evaluators should be roped in for this purpose,” she adds.
“The timing for such a workshop should be decided after thorough research to avoid religious and national festivals which often keep both parents and kids busy,” says Manorama, adding that along with youngsters, there’s a need to involve parents too.
Adhiraj Singh, 23, author of two comic books, says that much needs to be done to inculcate reading habits among kids. “Publishers need to take serious initiatives. They need to come up with innovative ways to promote books. Books should be made more accessible and less complicated,” he says.
“Only popular works like the Harry Potter series are selling. Blame it on the new media, there is a drop in the attention span of youngsters,” he adds.
However, according to theatreperson Bubbles Sabharwal, who has been organising workshops and storytelling session for kids, parents and schools should encourage reading habits among kids. “Unfortunately, television takes precedence over books, and many schools don’t have well stocked libraries. It would be a great idea to introduce kids to a good author once in a while,” she adds.