I was lucky to at a very young age have been thrown into the wonderful world of Middle Earth as my eldest brother chose to read me first The Hobbit and then Lord of the Rings.

Immersed into a world of fantasy like none other I was entranced by the words, inspired by the imagination and transfixed by the genius of Tolkien. For a seven year old lad hearing the words of these stories roll off my brothers tongue as he read to me each evening was my candy fix for the day. I remember rushing home from playing next door, knowing that it was time for him to sit and read with me before bath time.

I may well have been too young to read those stories on my own, but taking the time to introduce me to the world of the power of the written word, and the imagination of a great author kindled in me what would become a passion for written works.

This is something I truly believe is the fundamental bedrock of learning, and developing an inquisitive nature. Our imagination is nurtured and stimulated through stories. We learn to create, communicate and shape our understanding and use of language.

I am dismayed at the decline of this interest in books and the works of literature among the youth of today, and I can't help wonder if a part of this decline is as a result of our own lack of encouraging our kids to read more.

Our lives are caught up in working, providing, earning, shopping, feeding and clothing our kids, that when it comes to spending quality time with them, all too often we are too tired, or can't be bothered to make that effort. In my own experience I honestly believe that without my brothers time and effort, I'd not have the passion for books that I do today.

Is it the time we take to pass on that interest in story telling that gives birth to an appreciation for literary work? I tend to think so yes.

We all come into contact with youngsters. Our nephews and nieces. Our sons and daughters. On camp at church, watching a game. When you can encourage them, Spend a moment in time and pass along that special thing we all share in the excitement of a gripping novel.

Thought for today - "Books are the most quiet yet most constant friends; they are the most accessible and wisest of counsellors, and the most patient of teachers." - Charles W Eliot.

Song for today - Your Guardian Angel - Red Jumpsuit Apparatus