National Adult Literacy Database

September 26, 2011

This week, we have a story from Brantford, Ontario. The author, Sandra Grech, has recently been enrolled in literacy classes at the Grand Erie District School Board Literacy and Basic Skills program in Brantford.

Hiding Behind the Book

by Sandra Grech

I struggle with reading. When I was a child reading was not encouraged at home or school. I felt “pushed away” when I was sent to a resource room. Being one of four girls with parents who came from Malta made it difficult.

One day, when Genna, my five-year-old daughter was at school, I was bored so I went to the public library. Knowing that reading was difficult for me, I went and asked the staff for help. I told the lady at the desk that I had a hard time reading. I did not hide it this time. I normally would not let anyone know that I struggled because I was embarrassed. She showed me an area that was for teens and what was popular; Mates, Dates by Cathy Hopkins. I looked around and found a series that I was willing to try. After reading the first book, I got the next, and next. I was hooked! I told myself that I would read every night.

I look back now and I am proud and amazed that I did it. I’ve read 10 books, and as a result I enjoy reading. I am happy that I pushed myself. I have been attending Adult Literacy and Basic Skills, in Brantford. We do a lot of reading individually and as a group. I feel I have made a lot of progress. Not only am I reading myself, but I have Genna going to library classes and reading as well! I no longer feel like I am hiding behind the book.

[This story was taken with permission, from Expressions, Fall 2009, an e-magazine published by Laubach Literacy Ontario.]