Let’s set one thing straight — I don’t merely love books, I live them. As a former head librarian, the immediate past president of the Library Association of Singapore, and having had my first career in the book trade where I promoted books and authors (Harry Potter or Jodi Picoult anyone?), my life has been an endless narrative with hard covers, dog-eared pages (not always, I swear!), and the musky scent of well-loved books.
I read at least 300 books annually (yes, you did read that right) and you can follow my Instagram handle @thesgtrekkiereads to keep tabs on that quest, and what this does is that I have opinions. Lots of them. And today all of them are on the upcoming World Book Day and its shamefully under-celebrated connection to kindness.
Let’s start with books. Books are oxygen to me. They entertain, they educate, they comfort—and sometimes they even remind you of what life is all about when your own stubbornness gets the better of you. There’s something remarkably awesome about holding centuries of information in your hands, flipping through pages with words that had shaped civilisations, and discovering some buried treasure which alters your paradigm in one paragraph. Plus, the fact that we get to spend an entire day in celebration of books. Well, that’s a no-brainer. In fact, there should be more of such days!
But the thing is—World Book Day isn’t really about books, it’s about kindness that they share. And I know what you’re thinking: “Kindness? In books? Have you read Game of Thrones?”
Bear with me. Books teach us about empathy. They make us walk a mile in someone else’s shoes, whether it’s a single mum fighting it out in a contemporary drama or a scientist going back in time and attempting to save the world. They remind us that every character—just like every person we meet—has a backstory, a motivation, a secret struggle we might not initially realise. That realisation? That leads to empathy. That’s why readers tend to be some of the most open-minded and compassionate individuals you’ll ever meet. (They also recommend books, but I digress.)
As someone who has spent years advocating for libraries, literacy, and the power of the written word, I’ve seen firsthand how books can be bridges. They connect generations, cultures, and perspectives in ways nothing else can.
A library isn’t just a room full of books—it’s a sanctuary of shared humanity. And every time that someone donates a book, recommends a novel, or simply takes the time to read with a child, they are part of an even larger revolution of good.
So, as World Book Day approaches on the 23 April, let’s take a moment of gratitude for books not just for the tales, but for the good they create. Read widely. Share generously. And, for goodness’ sake, return library books on time. (Trust us, librarians remember. We always remember.)
What have books taught you? Let us know!