In this edition’s Army&You and Reading Force Book Club, service children tell us what they thought of The Verts by Ann Patchett and Robin Preiss Glasser.
ALFRED, AGED 4
Alfred said he enjoyed the book, he liked the differences between Ivan and Estie and realised he’s a bit of both of them! He loved the pictures and repeating “Estie is Estie, and Ivan is Ivan.” He loved that it involved a party too!
KIP & ARCHIE, AGED 4 & 6
The Verts is a story about a brother and sister called Ivan and Estie who are very different. Estie likes parties and playing with lots of people, but Ivan likes being on his own and peace and quiet. We loved the pictures in the book and the way they made the party really come to life – we could almost hear all the noise! This was a beautifully written book with lots of different characters, which started a wider discussion on different personalities and why we all like different things. We read it over a couple of nights as it’s a bit too long to hold Kip’s attention but it’s definitely a story we’ll be reading again (and again!).
HAVE FUN SHARING BOOKS
Reading Force is the free shared reading initiative for forces families where you can share a book and talk about it, together at home or via video call if separated. You’ll receive a free book and scrapbook to fill in with your thoughts, letters, drawings and photographs. It’s a fun way to keep connected. Teens receive a special journal. Take part via your children’s school, HIVE, or register online at readingforce.org.uk