This week, Marmara University’s Atatürk Faculty of Education, Preschool Education Department, kicked off with a meaningful and enjoyable event. Preschool teacher Asiye Beyza Kaçıra and renowned children’s book author Görkem Kantar Arsoy joined Professor Dr. Gülden Uyanık's Children's Literature in Preschool class as guest speakers to meet with the students.

Asiye Beyza Kaçıra gave an in-depth introduction to Okutopya, an initiative led by Görkem Kantar Arsoy. Established in 2019 in Etiler, Istanbul, Okutopya operates as a next-generation book club and reading workshop for children aged 3-10. As a unique children's library in Istanbul, Okutopya aims to instill a passion for reading in children and offer them a world filled with stories and fairy tales. The space houses over 11,000 carefully selected books in Turkish and English, providing a tranquil, greenery-filled environment where families and children can enjoy quality time with books.

Children who become members of Okutopya gain a love for reading and develop lifelong reading habits through fun activities. Through reading events, author talks, and book club gatherings, children enhance their reading, writing, and listening skills while gaining awareness about library culture. Dedicated to creating a “reader-writer” and “reader-loving” society, Okutopya works collaboratively with families and makes a significant impact in the field of children’s literature.

At the end of the class, students had the opportunity to explore the resources offered by Okutopya more closely and exchange ideas about the recommended books. The event concluded with thanks extended to Asiye Beyza Kaçıra and Görkem Kantar Arsoy for sharing their knowledge and experiences with the students.

Okutopya! Okutopya! Okutopya!