Every year, World Read Aloud Day serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of storytelling and literacy on young minds. This year, Vickie Remoe, CEO and Founder of VR&C Marketing company, marked the occasion with a visit to Gateway High School, where she engaged pupils in an enriching reading session.

Remoe read from her unpublished book, “Bundu and the Dun Dun,” captivating the young audience with its engaging narrative. Rooted in cultural heritage, the book tells the story of Bundu and the significance of the Dun Dun, a traditional African drum.

To bring the story to life, Remoe went beyond reading, she invited drummers to accompany her session. The rhythmic beats of the Dun Dun provided a real-time experience, immersing the students in the story’s essence and deepening their connection to its cultural significance.

Pupils of Gateway School

Vickie Remoe Shares her Inspiration Behind Bundu and the Dun Dun

While filming a TV show in Moyamba, Remoe encountered the Gbotima Cultural Dance Troupe, where she watched young boys dancing in raffia skirts- a moment that left a lasting impression.

“I was amazed by their dancing. It was beautiful. I knew I had to write about them,” Remoe said.

Her book, “Bundu and the Dun Dun” follows the story of Bundu, a young boy who loves to dance, and the “Dun Dun,” a talking drum. Through storytelling, she aimed to introduce children to this vibrant aspect of Sierra Leonean culture.

To make the session interactive, Remoe invited drummers to play the “Dun Dun.” This allowed the pupils to experience the sounds that inspired her book.

“The Dun Dun is a talking drum. It speaks through rhythm and connects us to our culture,” she explained.

Following the reading, she encouraged the pupils to dance, making the session both educational and entertaining.

The pupils later shared their thoughts on the book, reflecting a deep understanding of the book’s themes- culture, music, and the power of storytelling- showcasing the lasting impact of the session.

Drummers at the event

A Lasting Impact

Beyond storytelling, Remoe took time to inspire the young minds about the power of reading. She emphasized how books can expand imagination, strengthen memory, and open doors to endless knowledge. Her engaging approach made the session interactive, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm among the pupils.

Dunstanette Bodkin, Founder and Director of Dunamis Kids Organization, highlighted the impacts of Remoe’s visit on the children.

“Having Vickie share her book took the reading Aloud experience to another level as the story she shared was one that the kids could relate to,” she said.

“They learnt about local musical instruments and the art of dancing (performing arts). This brought about curiosity and the kids are looking forward to learning about other local musical instruments,” Bodkin said.

“During the reading session the kids were able to connect learning with a fun activity as the story teaches about the vowel ‘U’ sounds yet allowed them to dance to the Dundun,” she added.

Bodkin emphasized that the experience will inspire the children to seek out more books that captivate them in future.

Remoe’s visit was more than just a reading- it was a masterclass in storytelling and a call to action for young learners to embrace books.

Her presence made this year’s World Read Aloud Day an unforgettable experience for the pupils of Gateway High School, leaving them inspired to read, dance, and embrace their heritage.

About World Read Aloud Day

World Read Aloud Day (WARD) takes place the first Wednesday of every February. Today, WARD is a testament to the power of stories to connect communities, empower individuals, and spark lifelong learning. This milestone year reminds us that every voice matters, and every story deserves to be heard.

Since LitWorld founded WRAD in 2010, it has grown into a global movement that inspires millions to share the joy of storytelling, bringing together book lovers, educators, and readers of all ages