This month’s theme: ‘Stories to pack in your suitcase’. Interview with Sui-Lee Wee, Southeast Asia Bureau Chief of The New York Times, and a Patana Primary Parent
What is one of your fondest or most favourite reading memories?
I remember distinctly reading next to my mother at our neighborhood library and getting my first library card when I was four. I was so proud – I still remember the plastic laminated card! I loved having my mother read to me every night, and then when I grew older, I read to her.
I was lucky to grow up with books all over my house because my father was a voracious reader. Going to the bookstore with him was such a treat because I could pick any book I wanted. I chose comics, books by Judy Blume, and the ‘Sweet Valley’ series. Soon enough, I moved on to read some of his books such as Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club and Jung Chang’s Wild Swans. There was nothing I loved more than escaping into other worlds – it is something that I still do on weekends, curling up in bed with a book and a cup of tea by my side.
Which fictional character would you most like/least like to meet in real life and why?
I would most like to meet Atticus Finch, the lawyer father in To Kill A Mockingbird. In him, you see what it’s like to stand for what is right, even when it is tough. Since I’m reading Harry Potter now with my son, who is in Year 4, the character I would least like to meet in real life is Voldemort, because he is just terrifying and appears to have zero compassion.
What does the theme of ‘Stories to pack in your suitcase’ mean to you? Do you have any book suggestions for people looking to read on a trip this summer, whether it’s a holiday, a trip for work, a move to another country…..?
The theme of ‘Stories to pack in your suitcase’ brings to mind having a vast trove of information and nuggets to access when one travels the world. I just finished reading Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, and I highly recommend it. It is funny and heartwarming, but also touches on serious issues, like loneliness and depression. It’s stayed with me since.
Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 Recommendations:
- The End Is Just the Beginning by Mike Bender, Jessica McEvoy, Year 2 Teacher
The End Is Just the Beginning, by Mike Bender, beautifully explores themes of transition, hope, and the exciting possibilities that come with every ending. A perfect read to support children in building resilience and embracing life’s next steps with optimism.
Key Stage 2 Recommendations:
- The Girl Who Stole an Elephant by Nizrana Farook, Ms. Natasha, Year 5 Teacher
This is a beautiful adventure story, set in Sri Lanka, where the main character, Chaya, goes on a daring escape through the country after stealing the Queen’s prized jewels. This is a perfect book for those who love adventure stories, strong characters and discovering new cultures! Through the book, you’ll explore Sri Lanka’s lush jungles and learn about some Sri Lankan customs. I felt like I was travelling through the place itself, as I read it!
- Peril on the Atlantic by A. M. Howell, Milo and Kin, 5N
This book is set in 1936, on a boat which is sailing across the Atlantic. If you like adventure stories, and you’re a particular fan of the Titanic, or Shackleton inspired books, then we recommend this book! Milo and Kin said “We love this book because it’s a detective story ‘on the move’. There’s murder, mystery and lots of excitement! (Don’t worry though, the ending is happy).”
Key Stage 3 Recommendations
- The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani, Areeya (Proud) Vijakkhana, 7C
This is a magical fantasy novel that turns fairy tale traditions upside down. It follows two best friends, Sophie and Agatha, from the village of Gavaldon, where children are taken every few years to attend the mysterious School for Good and Evil. The story is filled with unexpected twists that keep you hooked from start to finish. Just when you think you’ve figured things out, the plot flips everything upside down. With unforgettable characters, and powerful messages about friendship, it’s a fantasy adventure that stays with you long after the last page.
- Holes by Louis Sachar, Sia Lee, 7S
If you’re looking for an adventurous summer read, then Holes is the perfect book for you! The book is set in Camp Green Lake, which strangely has no lake and is not green, where naughty bad boys go. Stanley Yelnats, who is our main character, is falsely imprisoned and is sent to Camp Green Lake. The Warden, who is the cruel, abusive head of the camp, forces the campers to dig a hole that is 5 feet deep and 5 feet wide in all directions under the scorching sun. Imagine waking up every morning at 4:30 and digging, digging and digging! Read it to find out what the Warden wants to discover…
- Allegiant by Veronica Roth, Sirianong (Plearn) Devakula Na Ayudhya, 8A
‘Allegiant’ by Veronica Roth is a fun and dramatic end to the Divergent series, perfect for KS3 or 4 summer reading. It follows Tris and Tobias as they discover the truth behind their world, and it’s not what they expected! There’s plenty of action, surprises, and even a bit of romance. The book switches between both characters’ points of view, which keeps things interesting and helps you connect with them more. It’s great for summer because it’s fast-paced and easy to get into, but it also makes you think about big ideas like choices, courage, and what makes people who they are.
- The Third Man by Graham Greene, Isabella Pitcher, 8S
This book is a gripping action story involving crime, corruption and mystery. This story is set in Vienna during World War II, where Austria was divided into four sectors, American, British, French and the Soviet Union. It begins with writer, Rollo Martins, who travels to Vienna to visit an old friend, Harry Lime. Upon arrival he finds out Lime has suddenly passed away in a car accident. As Martins lurks around Vienna, he carries suspicions on where Lime really is, and gets involved in a thrilling investigation, which leads him to discover the dark truth of post-war Vienna. The story highlights the conflict and truth behind societies within countries severely affected by war and is an interesting story to read over the summer.
- A Semi-definitive List of Worst Nightmares by Krystal Sutherland, Sharyn Narula, 8W
I recommend this book because Esther, the protagonist, whose whole family is consumed by their fears, overcomes every fear she has ever had with such a bold display of courage and resilience. She and Jonah, her childhood best friend, work together to help her achieve this goal. Every time Esther crosses a fear off her list, we see a new, stronger side of her. This is a great summer read because, with the end of the academic year and the beginning of a new one, this book can inspire you to step forward with a fresh perspective. Leap into a thrilling journey full of bravery, teamwork, and self-improvement. I’d recommend this book to teens, especially anyone dealing with the stress of exams, deadlines, or personal fears they want to deal with. I hope this story gives you the boost of inspiration you need to face your own fears and meet a new version of yourself!
Key Stage 4 and 5 Recommendations:
- The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, Ms. Avila’s Year 12 Literature Class
The Midnight Library is a gripping fantasy-style story about one woman’s journey from grief to hope. Protagonist Nora Seed lives a life full of misery and regret. With the help of a friend, she takes a journey through the Midnight Library where she is able to see the different paths life could have taken her on. Through this journey, she is forced to consider the question of What Is The Best Way To Live? This book is a quick read, that really makes you consider what’s important and who matters in the lives we lead. Note: this novel does explore themes of suicide.
