Braeside Thika Celebrates Book Week & World Book Day with ‘Tales from Africa’

Braeside Thika recently came alive with the vibrant spirit of African storytelling as students and staff celebrated Book Week and World Book Day under the theme ‘Tales from Africa’.The week-long activities honoured the continent's rich literary heritage, paying tribute to African authors, folktales and oral traditions that have shaped generations. With a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling, Braeside Thika dedicated this year’s Book Week to exploring Africa’s diverse narratives; stories of resilience, wisdom, and cultural pride. The school community engaged in various immersive activities, designed to ignite a love for reading and celebrate the creativity of African literature.

Highlights of the Week

Storytelling Sessions – The heart of African literature is in its oral traditions, and this came to life through engaging storytelling sessions. Teachers and guest narrators captivated audiences with animated readings of African stories, such as ‘Koko Riko, Who Woke Me’, ‘Crack on the Ground’ and ‘Sudef Wildlife Detective Series’.

Spotlight on African Authors – The school library showcased an extensive collection of books by renowned African authors such as Chinua Achebe, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Wole Soyinka, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Wangari Maathai. Students explored powerful stories that highlight African heritage, history, and contemporary experiences, fostering a deeper connection to the continent’s literary excellence.

Creative Art – Inspired by African literature, students were encouraged to craft their own original stories, projects, and illustrations based on African themes. They displayed exceptional creativity, proving that the next generation of storytellers and artists is ready to carry the torch forward.

African Dress-Up Day and Artefact Display – The school was a colorful showcase of African heritage as students and staff dressed in traditional African attire. A special artefact exhibition featured beautifully crafted African masks, sculptures, fabrics, and musical instruments, offering students a hands-on cultural experience.

A Lasting Impact

As the Book Week celebrations concluded, the impact was undeniable. Students left with a renewed passion for reading, a deeper appreciation for African culture, and an understanding of the power of storytelling in shaping identities and preserving history.

Braeside Thika remains committed to nurturing a reading culture and celebrating the voices that make literature so impactful. Through ‘Tales from Africa’ students not only honoured the past but also embraced the future of African storytelling.
Cheers to a lifelong love for literature!