Signed Library Books from the Love Literacy Conference
There’s fantastic news from our library this week—our shelves are now home to three newly signed books from an inspiring trio of authors: Matt Goodfellow, Rashmi Sirdeshpande, and Tọlá Okogwu! Their books span everything from powerful verse novels to eye-opening information texts to action-packed superhero fiction. All three signed copies are available to borrow from our special library display.
Our librarian attended the Peters Books Love Literacy Conference last week and returned buzzing with ideas. Here’s a closer look at each author, their books, and the keynote messages they shared.
Matt Goodfellow – Verse Novels that Pack a Punch
We now have three signed copies of Matt Goodfellow’s award-winning verse novels, including The Final Year and The First Year. These books follow Nate as he moves from Year 6 to Year 7, capturing his emotions in powerful free verse. Heart-wrenching and uplifting in equal measure, The Final Year earned multiple award nominations and won the CLiPPA Poetry Award 2024.
During his keynote, Matt described poetry as “rebel writing”—a bold, freeing way for young people to express themselves. He encouraged everyone to give poetry a try and to help children discover how it can amplify their own voice.
Rashmi Sirdeshpande – Money Made Meaningful
We’re also excited to add a signed copy of Rashmi Sirdeshpande’s Dosh: How to Earn It, Save It, Spend It, Grow It, Give It to our information books section. Clear, friendly, and incredibly useful, Dosh explains what money is, why it matters, and how to handle it wisely—whether you’re earning pocket money or planning big dreams.
In her keynote, Rashmi spoke passionately about choice and the joy of reading for pleasure. She shared her experience of being a neurodivergent teen and reminded us that there truly is a book out there for everyone—if we’re willing to search for it.
Tọlá Okogwu – Superheroes, Family, and Finding Yourself
The third signed book joining our shelves is Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun, the first instalment in Tọlá Okogwu’s thrilling middle-grade superhero series. Filled with family, magic, and mystery, it promises an exciting adventure for readers who love stories with heart and high stakes.
Tọlá’s keynote encouraged students to read “boldly, widely, and beyond.” She also shared the touching reason she writes her books: she wants her daughters to see themselves as the heroes in the kinds of stories they love—especially superhero tales.
Why Signed Books Matter
Signed books don’t just look special on the shelf—they help celebrate the authors behind them and highlight their dedication to creating stories that matter. We hope these new additions spark curiosity and inspire even more readers across our school.
Our Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) programme gives every student 20 minutes of reading time each day, and the library is always ready to help them discover books that match their interests.
Holiday Borrowing Reminder
One last piece of exciting news: all books borrowed from this week onwards will be due after the New Year! This is the perfect time for students to pop into the library and pick up some holiday reading. As always, we’re more than happy to help them find something new and brilliant to enjoy.