Hayes Green WI marks National Year of Reading with book challenge

Members of Hayes Green WI put their love of books to the test as they celebrated the UK's National Year of Reading with a literary challenge.

The group met at the Five Ways Inn in Heath Hayes on Tuesday, September 1, for its monthly meeting, where members were invited to bring along an extract from a favourite book or poem.

To make the challenge more difficult, the title and author of each piece had to remain secret. Some members covered their books with plain paper, others hid them inside folders or kept Kindle screens out of sight, while one member even kept her book hidden in the bottom of a bag while reading.

As each extract was read aloud, the rest of the group had to work out whether it was poetry or prose, fiction or non-fiction, identify the genre and guess where and when the story was set.

The evening featured a wide range of novels and poems, with members recognising many well-known characters, settings and authors. While some extracts were quickly identified, others left listeners frustrated as they recognised the story but could not remember the title.

The discussion continued with a debate about reading habits, comparing digital devices and audiobooks with traditional paper books. Most members agreed they still preferred reading a physical book, although everyone left with new recommendations inspired by the evening's discussions.

Hayes Green WI meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7.30pm at the Five Ways Inn on Hednesford Road, Heath Hayes.

The group's programme includes quizzes, speakers, craft activities, wellbeing events and food tasting, alongside regular social events and fundraising for charities and community groups.

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, October 6, when members will be entertained by a local choir. New members are welcome.