Celebrating International Book Day (Dia Mundial do Livro)
To celebrate International Book Day some students from class A of the eighth grade visited class H of the tenth grade at Eça de Queirós Secondary School to talk about books. Students had the opportunity to sit in groups and discuss book preferences and reading habits. They also learned how books were made in ancient times and how bookmaking today differs from the past. In ancient times, creating books was a painstaking process involving meticulous craftsmanship and considerable time.
The book's journey began with materials like papyrus in Egypt or parchment in Europe, each requiring arduous preparation before the actual writing could commence.
Once written, individual pages were painstakingly bound together, often using materials like leather or thread. The finished product was a precious item, a testament to the dedication and skill of its creators. However, the process was slow and labour-intensive, limiting the availability of books and making them accessible only to a privileged few. Fast forward to the modern era, and the process of bookmaking has undergone a radical transformation. With the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, books became more accessible as mass production became possible. Today, printing technology has advanced to such an extent that millions of copies of a book can be produced within a short span of time.
Moreover, the rise of digital technology has revolutionized the concept of books altogether. E-books, in particular, have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional print books.
Despite these technological advancements, some students said that traditional print books continue to hold a special place in their hearts. The tactile experience of holding a physical book, turning its pages, and feeling its weight is irreplaceable for some students. Moreover, print books have a timeless quality that transcends trends and fads. At the end of the reading sessions students, concluded that while the process has become more streamlined and efficient, the essence of books as vessels of knowledge and imagination remains unchanged. Whether in print or digital format, books continue to enrich our lives and shape our understanding of the world.
Professora Carla Seixas