"Next door is a long way away": Book reading inspires young listeners

Years 6 to 8 of the Mariengymnasium recently experienced an extraordinary reading at the Kinodrom Bocholt. Bocholt-based children's book author Antje Bones presented her work "Next door is a long way away" and actively involved the young people. The event was sponsored by the Europa-Scheck of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Years 6 to 8 at Mariengymnasium attended the special author reading at Bocholt's Kinodrom cinema. Children's book author Antje Bones, who comes from Bocholt, presented her work "Next door is still far away" - a story about friendship, loss, being a stranger and the importance of remembering, which was published in 2023. The Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media and Head of the State Chancellery of North Rhine-Westphalia welcomed the school community and guests with a video greeting.

The book tells the story of twelve-year-old Edith, who moves from Berlin to Krakow with her family. The author addresses themes such as friendship, loss, being a stranger and the importance of remembering. She sensitively combines personal experiences with historical elements: Edith discovers old letters that hint at the fate of a Jewish family. In this way, young readers learn in a child-friendly way why a culture of remembrance and tolerance are central values in Europe.

The Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media and Head of the State Chancellery of North Rhine-Westphalia welcomed the participants in a video greeting and emphasised the importance of such initiatives that make European topics tangible. The event was organised by EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt together with the European representative of Mariengymnasium, Sven Volmering. "It is important to keep the memory of the persecution of Jewish fellow citizens alive so that history does not repeat itself in Europe", explains Sonja Wießmeier from EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt.

The so-called Europe Cheque is a funding initiative of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia that supports projects on European topics. Interested organisations, schools or associations can also apply for funding in 2026. Among other things, discussion events, exhibitions or excursions with a European connection are possible. EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt provides support with the application process and advises on the funding conditions.

EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt is part of the mayor's office of the city of Bocholt and acts as a local contact point for questions relating to the European Union. The aim is to provide local citizens with information and guidance and to promote European involvement.