Yeah, that’s a mouthful, so I won’t repeat it here. I’ve only read one book by Katherine Rundell – well, two now – so have little experience of this writer, seemingly very admired by many. I have no cause to doubt them. I’ll want to read more.
But this little book, clearly aimed at adults, and so handy for sticking in your pocket when you go out, is about reading. I’m guessing it’s a talk Katherine has given. 63 small pages, starting in Zimbabwe, where Katherine first discovered that incredible thing that is a library. You go in, and you come out with books to read, and you haven’t paid for the pleasure.
On page two she mentions Martin Amis and his brain injury; the one he’d require before sinking so low as to write for children. Yes, most of us remember that comment still. We don’t like it.
And then Katherine goes on to talk about children’s books and it’s completely right, and it’s so inspiring, even to an old Bookwitch like me, who sometimes needs a push.
Well, you know how I’ve dithered recently. To read or not to read. What to read and why and when, and during 2020 ‘how?’ and getting no real answer. Until this little volume.
I do like Katherine’s mother, who had to remind her that you don’t have to break into libraries. You just walk in and you can have all the information you need. Have to admit that tunnelling in would have been fun, though.
As for the word pedagogy, I don’t know how to pronounce it properly, either. It’s the curse of having learned some words by only reading them. (I can say it in Swedish, however!)