Childhood is something nobody likes to talk about.

My childhood was totally different from what I see nowadays. We didn't have the huge amount of fun, toys and opportunities the younger generation enjoy at present.
Nevertheless, we surely had a great time! (No longing for the large amount of toys and technology items that advertisements allure us with all the time). I guess our expectations were simple then.

I tried to think about my toys. I had dolls and I played house with, all those pans and tableware, doll’s furniture. They were simply great to have fun with, but when I think about it they didn’t strike me as memorable.

I think books were my favorite toy. I clearly remember my first fairytale book. "Contos da Carochinha" (a collection of Portuguese and Brazilian tales). I remember the first one: "A moura torta"(The crooked moor) and in my mind’s eye I can see the first gothic letter of the first word. I remember how I wanted to start reading at once instead of playing! It was my eighth birthday party.

Also at school, I loved bringing home the books from the class library on weekends. I still remember some drawings and some titles... They had a strong influence on me and my imagination could fly along... I take it many people at my age would agree books were and still are the best source of entertainment and knowledge.

I feel sorry for the kids who only have to read a book as homework or as a mandatory task. They miss out on a lot, in my opinion.

Sent by: Vanda from Brazil
Edited by: Kerstin Boljahn