Singapore’s 60th birthday is no small affair—and this year, Popular Bookstore Singapore is doing something particularly special to mark the occasion. For just one heartfelt afternoon, they are inviting families, readers young and old, and lovers of stories to gather together at Waterway Point for a meaningful celebration.
While many might expect fireworks and parades, Popular has chosen a more intimate and inspiring path: a live storytelling session that touches on values, community, and perseverance. It’s a gentle yet powerful reminder that stories shape culture, foster imagination, and bind people together across generations.
On Saturday, 26 July 2025, from 2pm to 3pm, head over to POPULAR Bookstore at Waterway Point for a storytelling event that celebrates not just the nation’s birthday, but the quiet strength that keeps people moving forward.
A Special Guest Appearance
This SG60-themed event features a live reading by Ms Sun Xueling, Senior Minister of State, who will be reading from the children’s book “What Ants Do on Fiery Days”. This title isn’t just a whimsical story for little ones. It’s rich with metaphors that echo the resilience of Singaporeans. Much like ants that band together and press forward despite adversity, the story is a quiet reflection of what the nation stands for—tenacity, community, and growth.
There’s something particularly significant when someone in government steps forward not in a formal setting, but in a space that encourages imagination and storytelling. It reflects an investment in children’s development, literacy, and national identity. Parents and children alike can expect an engaging, thoughtful experience that offers more than just a typical reading session.
Why Families Shouldn’t Miss This
If you’re raising young readers or simply looking for meaningful weekend activities, this one ticks all the right boxes. Here’s why:
-
Interactive and Educational: Storytime helps children enhance their listening skills, imagination, and comprehension. Hearing a story read aloud, especially by someone of prominence, adds an extra layer of excitement and respect for books.
-
National Pride through Stories: Events like this celebrate Singapore’s journey not just through statistics or ceremonies, but through narrative and emotion. It’s a chance to share the SG60 spirit in a way that’s accessible and fun for young minds.
-
Free Admission with Bonus Perks: There’s no entrance fee, and on top of that, visitors can enjoy 20% off selected books during the event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to expand a home library at a more affordable price.
-
Bonding Moments: In today’s fast-paced world, it’s hard to find moments where parents and children can truly connect without distractions. This event offers a perfect environment for that. Sharing a love for books helps foster meaningful family conversations and memories.
-
Strategic Venue Location: The event takes place at POPULAR Waterway Point, a venue that’s both central and accessible, with plenty of amenities nearby. After the reading session, families can stroll around, enjoy a meal, or browse other book selections at the store.
What’s on Offer at the Book Sale
As part of the SG60 celebrations, Popular Bookstore is also offering 20% off selected books during the event. This applies to a specially curated range of titles, so attendees have the added benefit of bringing home something new to read—perhaps even the same book that’s featured in the reading.
Popular has long been a trusted name for affordable and diverse reading materials in Singapore. Their curated sale ensures that even in a celebratory event, they maintain their reputation for offering good value. Whether you’re looking for children’s books, local titles, or literature that reflects Singaporean culture, there’s something for everyone.
A Deeper Look into the Book
“What Ants Do on Fiery Days” may be written for children, but like many great picture books, its underlying message resonates with adults too. It talks about perseverance and the importance of collective effort. When things get tough, it’s not about who leads or who follows—but about how individuals support one another, much like ants navigating the heat.
Having a minister read this story gives it even more weight. It’s a subtle way to reinforce that literature matters, and that values like unity and empathy start at an early age.
Creating a Culture of Reading
Events like this aren’t just one-offs—they’re part of a broader movement to embed reading into everyday life. Encouraging reading at home, attending public events like this, and showing children that books are exciting, valuable, and celebrated—these are all building blocks toward a lifelong love of reading.
It also shows children that reading isn’t just something that happens in school. It can happen at malls, libraries, parks—anywhere. And it’s something to be shared and enjoyed.
How to Make the Most of the Event
If you’re planning to attend, arrive early to get a good spot. Seating may be limited, and as it’s a one-hour event, punctuality ensures you and your family won’t miss a moment. Bring a camera to capture some photos (subject to event rules), and consider letting your child pick out a book afterwards as a treat.
You may also want to chat with Popular staff on-site about their latest children’s titles or reading materials aligned with Singaporean history and values. These can be great resources not only for home reading but also as gifts or educational tools.
In Conclusion
The SG60 Storytime at Popular Waterway Point isn’t just a promotional event. It’s an opportunity to slow down and remember what truly matters: stories that connect, inspire, and bring families closer. Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or simply someone who loves good books and meaningful gatherings, this is a worthwhile way to spend your Saturday afternoon.
With a reading session by a respected public figure, discounts on books, and an environment designed to encourage learning and celebration, this event perfectly blends national pride with family-friendly engagement. Don’t miss the chance to be part of something that’s more than just a sale—it’s a memory in the making.
Promotional/Event Details:
Date: 26 July 2025
Time: 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Venue: POPULAR Bookstore, Waterway Point
Event Highlight: Live Story Reading by Ms Sun Xueling, 20% Off Selected Books
More Info: https://popular.com.sg/pages/events
Source: Facebook Post
EverydayOnSales help brands connect with our community, the largest warehouse sales consumers database in Singapore. Advertise with EverydayOnSales Singapore.