In a classroom filled with small voices and wide eyes, stories did more than sit on pages—they were brought to life. On the eve of Read Across Jamaica Day, the usual rhythm of the school day softened at Spanish Town Infant School, making space for the simple joy of reading.

Conceptualised by Massy Distribution, now transitioning to Acado Jamaica, the initiative was designed to make a meaningful impact and that it did. Students were treated to an engaging session led by international author Marley Dias.

Dias, the daughter of a Jamaican mother, could hardly contain her excitement as she told Observer Online just how much the moment meant to her. Having spearheaded countless literacy campaigns since she was 10 years old, this was a full-circle experience that quietly reaffirmed her life’s purpose.