World Book Day at Chartwell House in Broadstairs was a memorable occasion this year, as residents, team members, and visiting schoolchildren came together to celebrate the launch of resident Gerald Gold’s debut children’s book, Two Tree Island.
Inspired by his lifelong love of reading and the sea, Gerald’s adventure story follows young explorers William and Anne-Marie as they join the spirited Captain Salt on a daring voyage to a mysterious island. Along the way, they encounter excitement, friendship, and nautical intrigue — a tale that has already captured the imaginations of residents, team members, and local children.
To mark the special occasion, some 30 pupils from Cliftonville Primary School, Newington Community Primary School and Bromstone Primary School visited Chartwell House to meet Gerald and join residents for a day of storytelling and shared reading.
Gerald, dressed as Captain Salt, read aloud from his book, bringing the seafaring adventure to life for his young audience.
Gerald, who celebrates his 91st birthday today (March 7), has had a love of the sea from an early age. He built his first small boat at 12 years of age and later built 18 more boats up to 32 feet in length. He joined (R.N.V.R) Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve aged 16 and the Royal Navy two years later.
He helped design the Hovercraft and other ships. In his spare time, Gerald enjoys building model boats and painting nautical scenes.
Gerald has also been signing copies of Two Tree Island, with all donations going to Books For Africa, a charity working to improve literacy and provide access to books for children across the continent. Through this initiative, Gerald’s passion for storytelling is being shared not only within his home but with young readers around the world.
Alongside Gerald’s book launch, residents and children enjoyed a day filled with storytelling, as pupils read their favourite books to residents, who in turn shared treasured memories of childhood stories they loved.
Joyce, a resident at Chartwell House, said: “It’s like stepping into a different world, a more cheerful world full of adventure and excitement!”
As part of the celebrations, Chartwell House also organised a book collection, inviting residents, team members and families to donate books for the three local schools. Admissions Manager, Jude Coveney worked with residents and children to create a World Book Day wreath, which will soon be displayed in Cliftonville Primary School’s new library.
Jude said: “Building strong connections with our local community is something we truly value at Chartwell House. World Book Day gives us a chance to open our doors, welcome local children into our home, and create lasting bonds through the love of books.
“It’s wonderful to see residents and children learning from each other, sharing stories and laughter, and creating memories that extend far beyond the day itself.”
Books are available from Chartwell – limited addition – donations are a minimum of £5 and can be signed (Funds will be going to Books for Africa)
Bravo Gerald
uncle albert ?