15 April
International bestselling author Lee Child made a brief departure from his national book tour yesterday to speak with prisoners at Wellington Prison and donate some of his books to the prison library.
“We were very fortunate to have Lee Child give up his time to come and talk to prisoners and staff,” says Wellington Prison Manager Reti Pearse.
“He really captured their attention so we’re hoping his visit will encourage the prisoners to read and increase book borrowing from our library as a constructive and worthwhile pastime.
“His visit may also prove to be an inspiration to prisoners who are doing the Foundation Skills Programme as he discussed the importance of reading. Not necessarily books to educate or improve word power, but books to enjoy, to escape into, to identify with; in essence books with a good story that would lead to improved communication skills.”
The Foundation Skills Programme makes it possible for prisoners to develop their reading, writing, speaking, listening, critical thinking, numeracy and problem solving skills.
Being functionally literate and numerate enables prisoners to more successfully undertake rehabilitative programmes in prison as well as increase their employment opportunities and better prepares them for further education or training when released.
“While the books Mr Child donated to the prison library may be suited to the more advanced reader, a good range of books aimed at those who are still developing as readers are also provided.
“Mr Child asked if those with limited reading ability were being catered for and seemed genuinely pleased that they were.”
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