Good Schools of India
Joy of Learning Weekly #76
We answer the question: Who will read with you?
Can you picture children missing out on the joy of reading? It’s not just about reading less; they lose a key tool for understanding others. Books spark our imagination by showing us the lives, feelings and challenges of people we don’t know. They help us connect and understand by teaching us to accept emotions that aren’t our own. Without this, it can be harder to care for people who are different from us.
We warmly invite children, teachers, parents, and anyone eager to share in the joy of learning with us, centred around our 3Rs - reading, reflection, and relationships. Join us every Sunday; we have held a session every week for the past five years since we began on the first day of October 2021. What started as a way to support students and teachers with good health and cheer during the COVID-19 lockdown period has today grown to become the Good Schools Alliance with 52 schools and special projects joining us.
Teachers, professionals, and volunteers volunteer to read on Zoom, and there are days when over 500 people join us. They not only see the book but also hear us speak eloquently, sharing deep thought and explaining difficult words as well as alien situations in English and Hindi. #JoyOfLearning #MyGoodSchool
Brought to you by the Learning Forward India Foundation
Books, Coffee and more
Yeh Dil Maange More: Remembering Captain Vikram Batra, My Brother | The Untold Story of India’s Kargil Hero Vikram Batra (PVC) Through His Twin Brother’s Eyes by Anupma Mehta and Vishal Batra.
Unanchored by Geetanjali Gusain
At The English Book Depot, we’re dedicated to kindling a love for books that brings joy to everyone. Book signings and a cup of coffee with the author aren’t just about creating lovely memories; they’re a chance to share and experience more stories!
We’re so grateful to Geetanjali Gusain, the author of “Unanchored,” for being with us at The English Book Depot on Sunday the 2nd day of August 2026. #BrewingKnowledge #BookCafe
Geetanjali Gusain’s first book, “Unanchored: Stories of Hope from Corners of India,” released in June 2026! It’s filled with fourteen heartwarming stories that explore the essence of modern Indian life, highlighting strength and identity in different settings. We had the pleasure of welcoming her at The English Book Depot and think she’s a promising author. Let’s all send her our best wishes as she travels and creates stories that will captivate us!
Join us in celebrating Literature, Art, and Culture at The English Book Depot! Immerse yourself in the magic of reading through our cosy Book Cafe, where unforgettable experiences await. Whether visiting in person or joining via Zoom, connect with a vibrant community of book lovers, authors, and educators—all passionate about the joy of reading. Start brewing knowledge with us! #BrewingKnowledge
My Good School
Brinda opened the session, and participants shared their experiences and reflections on “My Family and Other Animals” by Gerald Durrell, focusing on his adventures with animals. The narrative highlighted the importance of believing in oneself, the impact of positive reinforcement, and the role of gratitude. Jugjiv read Michiko Ayoyama’s book, detailing Hiroya’s journey from unemployment to finding purpose through drawing. The discussion emphasised the significance of mindset, small actions, and the influence of environment on personal growth. Manisha read from “Time Stops at Shamli” by Ruskin Bond in Hindi.
Emerging Literacies
Sandeep Dutt led a discussion on emerging literacies, referencing Yuval Noah Harari’s work. He emphasised the importance of character and citizenship in the face of technological advancements that may render many jobs obsolete. Dolly and Shahar shared reflections on the impact of technology on work and the need for continuous learning. Sandeep highlighted the necessity of government intervention to support lifelong education and basic needs, citing Scandinavian models. He also discussed the potential for universal basic income and services to address job losses. The session concluded with a call for meaningful pursuits to enhance human well-being in a post-work society.
The Teachers Academy
Brinda Ghosh continued the book reading session focused on “Wanted Back-bencher, Last-ranker Teacher,” where participants discussed the content and shared reflections. The group read and discussed a chapter involving Roma, a teacher who helped resolve problems for students, including dealing with a stuntman harassing children. Brinda provided insights about managing different student levels in classrooms and the importance of understanding students’ emotional states. The session concluded with plans to continue reading the current book next week before starting a new book titled “Educated” by Tara Westover.
The Challenge: From Exploitation to Irrelevance - changing role of ‘Work’
Discussing the future of work and society in the age of AI.
Key Takeaways
AI’s rise shifts the primary societal challenge from exploitation to irrelevance, as automation threatens to make human labour economically redundant.
Proposed solutions, like Universal Basic Income (UBI) or Universal Basic Services (UBS), face major hurdles: defining“basic” needs, funding, and the risk of creating a permanent, unbridgeable social divide.
The global economy is at a crossroads: AI could create immense wealth in tech hubs while devastating developing nations that rely on cheap labour, making rapid, double-digit growth critical for countries like India.
The ultimate threat is the loss of human agency to algorithms, which could lead to digital dictatorships. The path forward requires a new social model combining a safety net with meaningful community and purpose.
Teaching Beyond the Classroom: Inspiring Hearts, Shaping Futures - Rekha Sharma
The discussion on the challenges of the twenty-first century also made me realise that education must prepare learners not only with academic knowledge but also with creativity, adaptability, empathy, collaboration, and critical thinking. These qualities are essential for navigating a rapidly changing world driven by technology and innovation.
Read my post on The Teachers Academy Blog.