7 Books for 7 Areas of Focus — Momo

At our last meeting, we took the first steps of our "7 Books for 7 Areas of Focus" project. This month, in line with the Basic Education and Literacy area of focus, we discussed Michael Ende's Momo. We collected the first books for our dream library project and got off to a great start.

With this project, we aim to: • strengthen Rotaract's core values, • amplify the unifying power of reading together, • and grow kindness through books.

As for the link between the Basic Education and Literacy area of focus and the book:

In the book, the characters known as the Men in Grey try to steal people's time and keep them constantly busy. From a Rotaract perspective, education and literacy programs help people use their own time well and gain access to knowledge. Momo's understanding of the value of time symbolizes the importance of education and literacy. Momo knows how to listen to people and truly make time for them. This is a critical skill in education and literacy: focusing, understanding and learning. Rotaract programs contribute to people's development by directing their attention toward knowledge and learning. Momo supports her friends and those around her by making time for them. Beyond individual gains, the book highlights the value of community and solidarity. Literacy enables people not only to develop themselves but also to gain the knowledge and awareness to contribute to society. Momo's imagination helps her solve problems from different angles. Education and literacy, too, foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

For November, we're moving on to the Peace and Conflict Resolution area of focus with the book In the Land of White Lilies. At the first meeting of the new month, we'll share our thoughts on the book and build up both knowledge and awareness.