Fantasy and sci-fi themes for Book Week capture the imagination.

By Cheryl Lai and Ariana Jones.

Fearless RCHK students take a T-Rex in their stride.

Covid has taken its toll on many of our RC events, but the adaptability of our librarians meant that Book Week 2021 was as packed with activities as ever. But what is Book Week all about? The RCHK Truth spoke to one of our librarians, Michelle Roberts, to find out more about the aim of Book Week, and the activities offered as part of Book Week 2021.

According to Roberts, the aim of Book Week is to inspire students and teachers alike to pick up a book, and to spark a love for reading. Spanning from April 19-23, this year’s theme “Take Me To Your Reader” focused heavily on the sci-fi and fantasy genres. With recommendations from both Roberts and LIRC Coordinator, Corinna Mansfield, both avid readers and those who are looking to dip their toes into these genres were able to find something suitable.

As for the events that happened during the week, due to COVID, Book Week went virtual. The librarians opted for scavenger hunts and quizzes in lieu of reading sessions and the passing out of sweet treats.

LIRC librarians Corinna Mansfield and Michelle Roberts lead by example on character dress-up day.

Roberts worked with the Red Door department to create a school-wide scavenger hunt with Actionbound. There were several rounds of scavenger hunts; It was essentially Pokémon Go, but book-themed and it had tangible prizes. “If you do one Book Week activity,” Roberts said, “it should be the scavenger hunt.” In the words of an unnamed Year 12 student, C, this was “a banger” of an activity.

In addition to the scavenger hunt, there is also the GALE Challenge, for which the prize is a $50 GALE gift certificate. GALE is responsible for a large portion of the LIRC’s online resources. The online quiz ends on May 28.

Ms Roberts highly recommends the following titles related to Book Week’s themes:

For sci-fi newbies:

The Time Riders by Alex Scarrow

From the age of dinosaurs to 2070, there’s something of interest for everyone. Though the time period may change, the characters remain consistent throughout the story.

The Martian by Andy Weir

Based heavily on existing science, it’s “close to reality” compared to other sci-fi content. For those who want to read something that’s a little closer to home.

For fans of dystopia:

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Though most are familiar with this story, it’s a story with depth, and is worth rereading. It also paved the way for many beloved YA series.

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline

With a movie released in 2018, Ready Player One is still fresh in our minds. Pick this book up to gain a more in-depth understanding of the world of OASIS.

More recommendations are available on the Book Week 2021 website!

And a finishing quote from one the newest member of our English department, Elizabeth Turai-Kiss: “I love books! Reading is everything! Read or be square!”

The English Department try to act. Name the sci fi classic, if you can.