Library newsletter

As we encourage our children to read, it can sometimes feel as though any book is a good book. However, this is not always the case — particularly for pupils in Years 7 and 8.

Of course, you know your child far better than we ever could, and you will have a clear sense of what you feel is appropriate for them. Nevertheless, with the rise of BookTok, the availability of very inexpensive books in shops such as The Works, and the increasing number of titles with youthful, eye-catching covers that in fact contain adult themes, there is a genuine risk that young people may choose books with content intended for much older readers. Some of these stories explore situations and experiences that they may not yet have the life experience to fully understand or process.

In the same way that films and video games carry clear age ratings, books are often categorised by age suitability — but this information is not always obvious. This can make it challenging for all of us to ensure that the books our young people are reading are right for them. What is suitable will, of course, vary from child to child.

We would encourage you to take an active interest in the books your child is buying or borrowing. Ask them about what they are reading, and about the themes within the story, just as you would take an interest in their online activity. Reading offers invaluable opportunities for young people to explore ideas, experiences and perspectives safely. By working together, we can help ensure that they are engaging with stories that are both enriching and age-appropriate.

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Based on Michael Morpurgo’s beloved novel, War Horse is a timeless story of love, courage and friendship, brought to life by astonishing life-sized horses from Handspring Puppet Company and a stirring musical score.

A huge thank-you to all the families who generously donated 19 books since the last newsletter, through our Love Reading 4 Kids wishlist. Your support also earned the library £50 in credit, which allowed me to purchase six additional new books for our students. These contributions make a real difference—expanding our collection, supporting a love of reading, and ensuring every child can discover stories that inspire and excite them. Thank you for helping our library grow!

We also accept donations from home. We are always looking for copies of the Lottie Brooks, Twilight, The Hunger Games and Lord of the Rings series but please do not donate Diary of a Wimpy Kid or David Walliams books, we have plenty of those titles already in stock and lots of spares. If you are interested in donating to the library, here are some guidleines.

The books should be suitable for children aged 11-16, not older or younger.

They should be in good condition.

If we can't use them in the main library, that you consent to them being used around the school for other purposes.

Any questions, please email librarian@oathall.org

Want a better night’s sleep?

Reading for pleasure before bed can help you drift off faster. A report from the Reading Agency suggests you are 45% more likely to sleep well if you read regularly.