Children Spotlight of the Week: Osaivbe Edmond Izedonmwen – The Nigerian Reading Prodigy
In a world where digital entertainment often overshadows traditional hobbies, one young Nigerian has emerged as a beacon of literary inspiration. Meet 10-year-old Osaivbe Edmond Izedonmwen, who has accomplished a remarkable feat by reading 200 books in a single year. His incredible journey of discovery, imagination, and generosity is a testament to the power of passion and determination.
Osaivbe’s love for reading began at the tender age of three. While most children his age were just learning to recognize letters, Osaivbe was already exploring the magical worlds hidden within books. His reading journey gained momentum when he set a bold goal in February 2024: to read 200 books before the end of the year. On December 18, 2024, he proudly completed his challenge with The Penguin Club by Achalugo Chioma Ilozumba.
Throughout his reading adventure, Osaivbe explored a diverse collection of literary works, from timeless children’s classics like The Secret Seven by Enid Blyton to Roald Dahl’s captivating stories, including Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG, and Danny, the Champion of the World. His curiosity did not stop with fiction; he ventured into non-fiction books like Boom Boom by Jude Idada, which sheds light on sickle cell disease, and El Deafo by Cece Bell, a memoir detailing life with hearing impairment.
Reflecting on his reading experiences, Osaivbe shared that My Animal Friends by Dick King-Smith left a lasting impression, teaching him the importance of patience, respect, and caring for nature.
Osaivbe’s literary journey stands in stark contrast to the growing disinterest in reading among young people. “I think gadgets and laptops seem to be taking away the love of reading among children,” he said. “I really like reading. It’s exciting, like watching a movie in your head, but your imagination is limitless.”
Determined to reignite this passion in his peers, Osaivbe launched his own book club and began reviewing books on his Instagram page, Read with Us, managed by his mother, Taiye Osayi-Izedonmwen. His father, Osayi, founder of Teesas Education and a proponent of Franklin Covey’s Leader in Me program, emphasized the family’s commitment to nurturing self-leadership principles at home. “That Osaivbe read 200 books in one year is a testament that we practise what we preach,” Osayi said.
Beyond his personal achievements, Osaivbe has taken significant steps to share his love for books with others. In April 2024, he donated 100 books to children in a Lagos church, hoping to ignite a spark of curiosity and imagination in other young minds. With the support of his elder brother, Oghosa, he organized a book and toy donation drive on Easter Sunday, reinforcing the idea that readers are leaders.
Looking ahead, Osaivbe plans to expand his initiative into a global campaign to promote reading among children worldwide. His mission is clear: to help other kids discover the same joy and knowledge that books have given him. As Osaivbe continues his journey with a new goal of reading another 200 books this year, his story serves as a powerful reminder that passion, discipline, and imagination can open endless possibilities.
