2025 Session 2 Report: Exploring Worlds Through Literature – January Book Review
by Uwaomala Tedeye · February 7, 2025
Itsekiri NextGen Project: 2025 Session 2 – Exploring Worlds Through Literature: January Book Review
Nurturing a Love for Reading and Critical Thinking
- Date: January 25th, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: Former Caravan 4, Aja-Pessu (Pessu Town), Warri
- Attendees: 55 participants, 4 volunteers
- Activity: January Book Review
- Organizers: Itsekiri NextGen Team
Session Summary:
The first book review session of 2025 provided participants with access to new books, including donations from Warri Reads, and fostered a love for reading and critical thinking. This session directly addresses the Literary Mandate by promoting reading culture and the Social & Cultural Mandate by encouraging discussion and reflection on important social issues.
Session Details:
The first book review session of the year proved to be an enriching experience. The participants were excited to explore the new books available. The session began with an opening prayer led by the coordinator, followed by the Itsekiri anthem, led by Toju Ogharandukun.
Rosemary and Treasure served as librarians for the day, assisting participants in selecting their books. Older participants chose novels and documentaries, while younger ones opted for pictorial storybooks. The room buzzed with quiet excitement as participants immersed themselves in their chosen reading materials.
The review session that followed was insightful, with Tosan Okandeji’s review of “Martin Luther King Jr.” being a particular highlight. She shared key aspects of King’s life, focusing on his advocacy for civil rights through nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience against discriminatory laws.
Tosan’s review sparked a thoughtful discussion, prompting participants to reflect on the significance of King’s legacy and its relevance to their own lives. The session concluded with a renewed appreciation for the power of literature to shape perspectives and inspire positive change.
Volunteers:
- Debi Amadedon
- Emmanuel Egbe
- Toju Ogharandukun
- Odatuwa Oritsetimeyin Clinton
Key Activities:
- Book selection
- Reading time
- Book reviews and discussions
Challenges:
- Three participants (Sharon Segun, Laju Faulkner, and Tosan) were unaccounted for during the session.