Author Lawrence Hill visits P.L. Robertson Public School as special guest at Family Literacy Night

P.L. Robertson Public School was filled with curiosity, imagination and thoughtful conversation on Feb. 5, as students and families gathered for the For the Love of Reading: Family Literacy Night, transforming the school into a vibrant hub of storytelling, games and hands-on learning focused on nurturing a lifelong love of reading. 

The event offered students and families a meaningful opportunity to engage with award-winning Canadian author Lawrence Hill in a moderated conversation that explored the power of stories, belonging and self-discovery. 

"The evening was designed with students and their families in mind,” said Krista Benedetti, Principal of P.L. Robertson PS. “The vision was for students to connect with reading, not just as a skill - but as a way of understanding themselves and the world around them. We want students to love reading and to harness this passion to become the authors of tomorrow.”

Families explored activities and learned practical strategies to make reading a shared, joyful experience at every age.

The evening’s author visit was a highlight for many students and families. Hill, widely recognized for his internationally celebrated novel The Book of Negroes, spoke with students about his writing journey and his most recent novel, Beatrice and Croc Harry. Written for both young readers and adults, the story follows a young girl who wakes alone in a forest with no memory of who she is and embarks on a journey of self-discovery alongside animal companions.

The moderated conversation was led by nearby Elsie MacGill HS Vice Principal Alexiis Stephen, who invited students to ask questions. Students listened intently as Hill spoke candidly about his writing process, the themes explored in his work and the powerful role books can play in a young person’s life.

“A book can be like a friend for life,” Hill shared with students. “A great book, a great story, a great friend… no matter what happens tomorrow, you carry that person with you forever.”

Hill stayed after the discussion to sign copies of his books for every attendee, allowing the long line of fans to leave with a personalized souvenir.

"It was reassuring to see the positive response from the community,” said P.L. Robertson Vice Principal, Kelly Gray. “Our staff is committed to strengthening the connection between student learning at school and the skills practiced at home through intentional conversations, shared reading activities, and fun! Ultimately, we want to inspire a lifelong love of reading and to encourage students to use their voices to shape the world around them."

In the school’s library, Another Story Bookshop hosted a book fair featuring a selection of books by Canadian authors, including the evening’s special guest. Families browsed together while supporting the school, with a portion of proceeds donated back to P.L. Robertson PS.

Throughout the evening, families explored hands-on literacy sessions tailored to different age groups. Kindergarten families took part in Building Blocks for Literacy, an introduction to early reading skills such as rhyming, syllables, letter recognition and sound connections, printing and comprehension, gaining insight into how foundational literacy skills are developed and learning practical take-home strategies to support learning beyond the classroom.

Students in Grade 1–3 and their families explored literacy through sessions such as Putting the Fun in Fundations! and Family Game Night: Primary Literacy Edition, where educators shared simple, enjoyable games that can easily be incorporated into everyday routines at home. Students in Grade 4–8 took part in their own edition of Family Game Night, creating make-and-take games and exploring digital tools and parent resources to support reading beyond the classroom.

Bedtime routines were reimagined during Bedtime Storytime for Kindergarten to Grade 3 families, where educators shared ideas for making nightly reading a calming and engaging experience, including the use of dual-language books. Families also enjoyed a visit to the selfie station.

French-language learning was celebrated during Jouons!: Learning French at Home, where families with students in Grade 2–8 explored virtual games and tools designed to support French literacy and encourage confidence in language learning outside of school.

The Milton Public Library joined the event to help families sign up for library cards, learn how to start family or peer book clubs and discover new ways to stay connected to reading within the community.

“P.L. Robertson PS’s For the Love of Reading: Family Literacy Night celebrated storytelling, literacy and the power of seeing oneself reflected in stories,” said Curtis Ennis, Director of Education. “The event also reflected the Halton District School Board’s commitment to meaningful Black History Month learning and creating school communities rooted in humanity, joy and connection.”

Through shared learning, authentic dialogue and relationship-building, the evening showcased the power of the Halton District School Board’s commitments to Kindness, Connection and Community and Learning, Engagement and Achievement through its Multi-Year Strategic Plan. 

The event reinforced the idea that reading is not only a vital skill, but a shared experience – one that builds relationships and inspires learners for life.