World Book Day 2025: A Celebration of Stories, Creativity, and Character at Surabaya European School
Surabaya, Indonesia – Surabaya European School (SES) recently transformed into a world of wizards, adventurers, and classic storybook figures during its much-anticipated Book Character Day. From head-to-toe costumes to excited chatter about favourite stories, the event celebrated more than just dressing up, it brought the magic of books off the page and into the school community.
Bringing Stories to Life
Children and staff arrived in character, proudly holding books that inspired their look. The creativity on display was remarkable: a witch with a broomstick, a detective in a suit, a girl from a folk tale, and many more. Laughter echoed through the gym as students paraded their outfits, posed for photos, and shared what they loved about their chosen stories.
The costumes weren’t just for show, they sparked genuine conversations about books, authors, genres, and values. The result was a vibrant and interactive way to promote a love for reading.
Literacy in Action: Beyond the Classroom Walls
Events like Book Character Day are part of SES’s commitment to active and immersive learning experiences. Rather than limiting literacy to worksheets and silent reading, the school encourages pupils to explore stories in multi-sensory, creative ways.
Learning with Heart and Purpose
Book Character Day reinforced several IPC personal learning goals—such as communication, cooperation, and resilience. Pupils confidently shared their character’s background, listened to peers, and worked together during group activities. The process of planning, rehearsing, and presenting their character also nurtured creativity and independence.
A Window into Other Worlds
One of the day’s most powerful elements was its support for international-mindedness, a cornerstone of the IPC. The range of books students chose, spanning different cultures, languages, and perspectives, highlighted SES’s diverse community and commitment to global awareness. Reading becomes a bridge to understanding others. By stepping into characters from other cultures or times, students develop empathy and curiosity—key traits for 21st-century learners.
More Than Just Costumes: Inspiring Lifelong Readers
Book Character Day did more than entertain, it inspired. It reminded students that reading is not a chore, but a doorway into new worlds. For some, it sparked an interest in a new series. For others, it renewed their love for an old favourite. And for everyone involved, it created joyful memories anchored in literature.
