On Thursday, January 30, the first day of the Year of the Estonian Book, the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre and the Institute of the Estonian Language invite everyone to participate in the global Estonian literature Read-Along Day. This year, we will read the first chapter of Jaan Rannap’s book Nublu.
“Read-Along Day builds a bridge between Estonians all over the world, connecting them through a shared language and literature. It supports learning and using the Estonian language, strengthens ties with Estonian culture and heritage, helps children and families value their roots, and keeps the sense of belonging and connection to Estonia alive,” said Merike Barborak, the coordinator of the Institute of the Estonian Language’s Estonian Schools Network Abroad.
The tradition of Read-Along Day began five years ago with the Tuglas Society’s idea to read a specific work by an Estonian children’s author on Estonian Literature Day. In 2021, the chosen book was Eno Raud’s The Naksitrallid (Three Jolly Fellows); in 2022, Aino Pervik’s Kunksmoor (Old Mother Kunks); in 2023, Andrus Kivirähk’s Sirli, Siim and the Secrets; and last year, Kadri Hinrikus’s Dachsund and Dane. This year, Nublu is available to read not only in Estonian but also in English, Russian, and German. Translations of the selected chapter can be found on the Children’s Literature Centre’s website.
On the Read-Along Day Facebook event page, participants can register, share their impressions of the book in posts, drawings, or photos, and use the hashtag #loemekoos2025. The Estonian Children’s Literature Centre and the Institute of the Estonian Language will raffle prizes among the most active participants.
January 30, Estonian Literature Day and the birthday of A. H. Tammsaare, has been celebrated as a national holiday and flag day since 2023. The aim is to value the cornerstone texts of literature, highlight contemporary literature, and recognize the role of writers in Estonian culture and society. In addition to the Read-Along Day event, many other activities are planned for the day. More information can be found on the Ministry of Culture’s website.
Learn more about Read-Along Day here and join the event via the Facebook page.