To encourage students to read and broaden their horizons, SHSID Pudong Campus hosted a series of Book Recommendation activities in December. Designed for students in Grades 1–3 and Grades 4–5, the events aimed to guide children toward high-quality reading through professional recommendations, supporting their cognitive, emotional, and intellectual development at different stages.

The book sharing session for Grades 1–3 was held on Tuesday afternoon, December 23rd. Teachers carefully selected books suited to young learners’ reading levels and interests. The librarian first introduced basic borrowing etiquette and library use, helping students understand how to choose books independently and develop responsible reading habits.

In Grade 1, the book recommendations focused on language development, imagination, and building a love for reading. Through rhythmic texts, relatable themes, and visually engaging stories, students were encouraged to enjoy books, develop curiosity, and form a strong emotional connection with reading from an early age.

In the English reading session, teachers introduced themed picture books and early readers. Football-themed stories emphasized teamwork and perseverance, while Irish-themed books offered cultural insights, helping students develop empathy and an early awareness of the wider world.

In Grade 2, the recommended Chinese reading list focused on expanding themes and improving comprehension. Through stories, informational texts, and imaginative narratives, students were encouraged to think more deeply and connect reading with real-world knowledge.

For English reading, teachers introduced popular series that balanced enjoyment with learning, supporting students as they transitioned toward more independent and confident reading.

For Grade 3, the recommendations emphasized curiosity-driven reading and knowledge exploration. Chinese titles encouraged questioning, creativity, and independent thinking.

In the English session, students explored science, history, and real-world topics through question-based reading, developing research skills and a stronger sense of inquiry.

The book sharing session for Grades 4–5 was held on the afternoon of December 18th. The event was led by the school librarian, Ms. Ren, who introduced thoughtfully selected books to guide upper-grade students toward more meaningful and reflective reading experiences.

In the English book recommendations, Ms. Ren selected a range of titles that combined strong literary quality with depth of thought, supporting students in developing critical thinking and broader perspectives through reading.

In the realm of fantasy, The Land of Stories invites students to reconsider classic fairy tales through the adventures of twin siblings in a magical world, while Eragon presents an epic coming-of-age journey that explores courage, responsibility, and destiny.

The Wild Robot series focuses on nature and life, encouraging students to reflect on the relationship between humans, technology, and the natural world through a heartfelt and thought-provoking story.

Science-themed books such as Kay’s Anatomy and Kay’s Marvellous Medicine use humor and playful illustrations to explain complex topics in human biology and medical history, helping students learn scientific concepts in an engaging and memorable way.

In addition, the National Park Mysteries series blends suspense with the breathtaking landscapes of U.S. national parks. Fish in a Tree explores learning differences and self-acceptance, while Willodeen uses a nature-based allegory to highlight ecological balance and responsibility.

The Chinese book recommendations were equally diverse, covering literary imagination, history and culture, art appreciation, and knowledge exploration.

Imaginative works such as The Rainy Bookstore immerse students in a poetic and fantastical literary world, while The Thief Griffin combines fast-paced storytelling with elements of art, mystery, and global perspectives.

In the history and culture category, Oracle Bone School: Tang Dynasty Chang’an allows students to experience life in the Tang Dynasty through a time-travel narrative, while Reading Records of the Grand Historian for Young Readers introduces historical figures and events in an accessible manner.

Classic tales such as The Magic Brush Ma Liang encourage reflections on justice and kindness. Art-focused books like Viewing Masterpieces from Different Angles help develop aesthetic appreciation, while Unbelievable Facts sparks curiosity through fascinating and unexpected knowledge.

Through the Book Recommendation activities, students learned how to choose books based on their interests and questions, transforming reading from a task into a meaningful way of understanding the world and themselves.

We believe that reading is a bridge to wisdom and imagination. Through this event, we hope to inspire more children to develop a love for reading, allowing the seeds of knowledge to take root and grow with them over time.

(Written by Duoyi Jin

Pictures by Pudong Campus Teachers

Reviewed by Mr. Wu Xiaodong, Shiyu Wu)