Why buy books when you can borrow?

There's nothing quite like the fresh smell of a new book, the anticipation of turning untouched pages, and the thrill of being the first to embark on a new story. This excitement is what makes owning your own books so special.

Many people wonder why they should buy books when they can borrow them. The most common reason is the cost, which is understandable. Others mention the community aspect and the benefit of getting out of the house to visit the library. While these points are valid, they simply do not overshadow the joy of owning your own book.

There is immense comfort in the familiar. Revisiting favourite characters, following their adventures, feeling the cover, the weight of the book, and the smell of the ink, or simply being drawn to the colours and illustrations, all contribute to the experience.

We all recognise the importance of reading and want to enjoy its benefits. Borrowing new books every week for our bookworms can indeed broaden their vocabulary and keep them entertained. Exposing them to new words and genres is undoubtedly beneficial.

At Genius Juniors, we are passionate about children owning copies of their favourite books. From our own families, we have seen the importance of having personal collections. Every time we reread a story, we discover something new, whether it's a detail in the illustrations or a deeper understanding of the narrative. The magic of a child anticipating the next part of a story and the excitement in their eyes as they retell it is simply amazing.

Following their interests and meeting them where they are with reading is key to success. Owning books that can be read repeatedly helps build language skills, confidence, and comfort. Books can create stability through routine. For example, "Good Night, Good Night Construction Site" has become a staple in many of our little Genius's routines. Its slow, melodic story gently lulls them to sleep. Owning a copy means that night after night, it serves as a comforting lullaby.

Books are not just for bedtime though. They are always on display in our homes, within reach, giving children the autonomy to choose. Books provide enjoyment and serve as tools for tough parenting moments. When we lack knowledge or understanding, books can help. If we have a bad day and can'not explain our feelings, we can turn to books. A child choosing a book with a particular theme can express how they feel. We often read books on topics like anatomy, gender, family types, disability representation, and bereavement to normalize certain words or views of life beyond their everyday experiences.

Lastly, we believe that investing in a book is investing in a child's future. It becomes a physical memory of special moments spent reading their favourite stories. Books are tangible treasures that can be passed down from generation to generation. Most importantly, owning a book puts joy directly into your hands, ready to be picked up and enjoyed whenever you wish.