The Stories We Grew Up On: Featuring Naomi Hawking
In honor of Children's Book Week, our Meg Team members are sharing the books and stories that impacted them as young readers!
For almost 80 years, the CBCA has been celebrating and commemorating the incredible impact and significance of children’s literature through a beloved one-week event known as Children’s Book Week. This year, the Meg Team takes a walk down memory lane, recalling the “Stories We Grew Up On.” These books and stories ignited our imaginations and left an everlasting impact.
Let’s continue with Naomi Hawking, Meg’s National Business Development Manager!
1. Naomi, what is a book, story, or series that impacted your life as a young reader?
The Babysitters Club series by Ann M. Martin
2. Describe how you remember reading/being read this book, e.g. how did you “grow up on this book?”
Trading BSC books among friends was a routine occurrence at my primary school! We were all enthralled by the series and eagerly exchanged books to devour as many stories together as possible.
3. What is your favourite quote, image, or character from this book or story?
4. Did this book inspire you or impact you in any way?
In “Karen’s Haircut”, Karen loses her front teeth and gets glasses. Then she gets a new haircut—which she immediately dislikes. During the time I read the book, I had been prescribed glasses for the first time, begun losing baby teeth, and had given myself an unfortunate haircut, too. Reading about Karen’s struggles was a safe space to process my own crisis of confidence, with my new fictional friend by my side. Her journey, helped me navigate my own challenges and find comfort at an important time.
5. Why do you recommend this book to others?
The Babysitters Club embodies the ideals of female empowerment and student entrepreneurship, which are topics I hold dear to my heart. The series portrays strong, independent young girls who navigate the complexities of life, friendship, and growing up—all while managing a successful business. It instills valuable lessons about friendship, leadership, and pursuing one’s dreams, making it a must-read for young readers seeking inspiration and empowerment.
6. Anything else you’d like to share, Naomi?
I’m proud to say that I own an extensive collection of over 100 Babysitters Club books, and have read even more! Ask me anything! 😉
Apart from being a National Business Development Manager at Meg, Naomi Hawking is an enthusiast of all things EdTech. After a decade of experience in print and online media, she ventured into adult education, facilitating workplace training and assessment with a strong focus on competency-based learning. Working in a continually changing environment combining systems and education ignited a passion for EdTech, which she has pursued ever since.