Reading - an integral part of life!

On a dull Wednesday afternoon Jayne Lloyd, a local photographer, came to my house to work on her project; a study of people who work at home and to consider the integration between home and work.

We talked about how I use my home to write, draw, train groups and coach individuals. As we were talking, it became apparent that my work is an integral part of my life. I know some people are able to compartmentalise their life - work in one box and home in another. It's simply not like that for me. My mind is always thinking about new ideas for stories, characters, events, etc. whether I am at home, on holiday or even meant to be asleep in bed! Thankfully, I absolutely adore my job so the integration seems perfectly natural and I love it.

After she left, I started to reflect on my love of reading and the similarities of its integration within my life. There is no separate compartment for reading - it is what I do all day, every day. Words are all around us and we are constantly reading, interpreting and creating meaning through communication. It is a fundamental part of living in the 21st century, which is why it is so critical to encourage children as young as possible to start to read.

Reading opens up a world of opportunities. Technologies will come and go but I believe what will always be important will be the ability to communicate effectively, upon which relationships are built and lives are lived, enriched by imagination and the love of a good book.

If you would like to find out more about Emma's work to encourage children to develop a love of reading, please contact her via www.haroldhuxley.co.uk.