New titles added to our adult literacy book series by Aucklanders

Have you ever imagined seeing your own story in a book? This is now a reality for adult learners at Literacy Waitākere!

Auckland Council Libraries, in partnership with Literacy Waitākere, is proud to present three new titles in the series "Stories of our Lives: Tō Mātou Ao, A Mātou Pūrākau". These short, heartfelt books were written by adult learners themselves, right here in Tāmaki Makaurau.

About the new books

• From Bamyan to Auckland by H. Dawlatyar

H. Dawlatyar writes about his experience of living in the Bamyan Province, Afghanistan, and the journey his wife and six children took to New Zealand in 2022.

• Extraordinary by Vi'ia Tovia Su'a Lupo

Vi'ia was born in Aotearoa New Zealand and is proud to be of Samoan and European heritage. She was born with cerebral palsy but doesn't let it define her. She has gained qualifications in tourism and continues to work towards achieving her goals.

• The River by MJT

MJT recounts experiences growing up in Ngāruawāhia, swimming in the Waikato River, and visits to whānau in the Far North.

From literacy students to published authors

What makes "Stories of Our Lives" truly special is the journey of its authors. These writers began as students in Literacy Waitākere's adult literacy programs, honing their skills and finding their voices. With invaluable support from tutors, editing and publishing help from Auckland Libraries, and financial assistance from Foundation North, these dedicated students have not only overcome challenges but also achieved a remarkable accomplishment: becoming published authors. 

"Learners find it very empowering to see their own writing in print, especially if they have had bad learning experiences in the past and have come to believe they are stupid because that’s what they’ve been told. But they are not stupid – they have just missed the opportunity to learn. When they get the help they need to understand how they learn, many want to write their own stories as a way of putting the past behind them." Tooki Proctor, Kaiwhakaritenga Ratonga Matauranga (Programme Coordinator) 

Inspired tutor turns illustrator

One of the tutors, inspired by the students' stories, has gone on to illustrate several of the books in this series, adding another layer of creativity and collaboration to the project.

"The project in of itself is really wonderful for me. I had always wanted my artwork to be meaningful and intentional and that’s exactly what this project demands. I am able to both express my creativity and my ability to connect with and listen to others. 

"My favourite part of the process involves learning what it is the learner really wants to see reflected in the artwork – whether it be colours, symbols, specific moods. Being able to do my best in delivering that, and then seeing their reaction once I am finished is incredibly rewarding and special." Nina Mercep, Literacy Waitākere tutor and illustrator

Connect with your community through reading

Whether you're reminiscing about your childhood in Ngāruawāhia with "The River" or following H. Dawlatyar's inspiring journey from Afghanistan in "From Bamyan to Auckland", these stories offer a glimpse into the lives of your neighbours, friends and fellow learners. 

This series is more than just reading practice – it's a celebration of our vibrant and diverse community. Each book captures the unique experiences of our fellow Aucklanders, from those who have built their lives here to those who have called Aotearoa home for generations. Their stories are a testament to the power of literacy and the importance of creating content that reflects the diverse experiences of our communities. 

Filling a content gap

When our library and publishing specialists identified a lack of adult literacy content reflecting Māori, Pasifika, and Aotearoa New Zealand stories and culture, they knew something needed to be done. By partnering with Literacy Waitākere, they created a series that not only fills this content gap but also empowers adult learners to share their unique perspectives. 

Adult literacy support at Auckland Council Libraries

Each book in this series is carefully written in under 600 words and features a large font. They are written mindfully by learners, for learners – or for anyone who enjoys short stories!

Find more reading and writing support for adults: easy-to-read books by visiting the Auckland Council Libraries website.

Celebrate International Literacy Day with us

As we approach International Literacy Day on 8 September, let's take a moment to celebrate the power of literacy and the inspiring stories that emerge from it. "Stories of Our Lives" is a perfect example of how literacy can connect, educate and empower.

You can borrow all these books for free from your local Auckland Council Library. Browse the "Stories of our Lives: Tō Mātou Ao, A Mātou Pūrākau" series in our online catalogue to find your next favourite read.

Keep an eye out for more exciting titles coming soon!