The opposite ends of the age spectrum gathered for a good read at the Bell Park Academy Centre last week as part of an RCMP program in East Preston.
On Friday afternoon, the East Preston Senior Ladies stopped by the primary school to visit pupils. The kids read to the seniors from books donated by the RCMP and the seniors returned the favour by telling the students stories from their own lives.
Freda Sutherland looked through the Ultimate African Heritage Quiz Book with a group of youngsters. The book, written by RCMP Cpl. Craig Smith, explores African-Nova Scotian history through trivia. Sutherland knew many of the people featured.
“It’s great when I get time to read. There are some great things in here,” Sutherland said, referring to the quiz book. She explained the ladies gather up to twice a month and look forward to adding the readings to their activities.
“I love young children,” the former daycare worker said.
“I like it,” said 12-year-old Lamont Brooks. He didn’t know any of the ladies before the reading, but quickly discovered he was related to Sutherland. Asked what his favourite book is, he named a story about racism.
“My favourite book … hmm, I’m thinking about all the books I’ve read. The Skin I’m In.”
Const. Kelly Lower of the RCMP said they had donated copies of the quiz book and Up Home, written by Preston’s Shauntay Grant and illustrated by Susan Tooke.
“It looks pretty good,” she smiled as young voices worked through the text. “I think the seniors are enjoying it. When they see some of the kids they know, I love that.”
Lower said it’s a pilot program now and could one day become a regular event.
