Helen’s story
For years, I wouldn’t confidently have described myself as a reader. I often started books with enthusiasm, only to have my creativity pull me in another direction. Over time, though, I realised I was reading constantly — just differently. And my local library played an important part in that journey.
I enjoy biographies, articles about innovation, educational research, marketing, creativity and emerging technologies. I’m drawn to reading that makes me reflect on my own purpose, absorb ideas and think differently about my work.
When my children were younger, reading became something we experienced together rather than something to complete. We had a talking teddy that responded to stories, recorded ourselves reading favourite books so they could listen again, and spent evenings singing nursery rhymes. Like many families, we loved Julia Donaldson, whose rhythmic storytelling made reading aloud engaging and memorable. Those moments weren’t about getting to the final page; they were about imagination, conversation and spending time together.
As a child, I often filled a page with colour before adding any words. The pictures came first, and the story followed. That creative way of thinking has stayed with me and eventually inspired me to start HelloU Creative, where I combine creativity, storytelling and technology.
Through HelloU Creative, I created StoryCoin, a storytelling platform using AI, art, 3D and augmented reality to bring stories to life and encourage people to discover places in new ways. I also developed an AI Newsroom workshop for the James Reckitt Reading Conference, exploring how storytelling, creativity and technology can support reading, critical thinking and AI literacy. Alongside supporting the local charity Reel Creative, I deliver creative workshops that encourage people to explore ideas, build confidence and use technology in imaginative ways.
These experiences have reinforced something I strongly believe: stories don’t only exist in books. They can be found in art, places, conversations, history and the technology we use every day. Reading is about curiosity, imagination and discovering ideas that help us understand ourselves and the world around us.
“Working with Hull libraries has had the biggest impact on my reading journey. The library staff are genuinely inspirational. Seeing the passion they put into encouraging people to read has made me want to read more, while introducing me to books and ideas I might never have discovered otherwise.”
Helen, HelloU Creative, Hull
I’ve realised there isn’t one right way to enjoy reading. The story is what matters, not the format. Whether it’s a book, an audiobook, a conversation or an augmented reality experience, stories have the power to inspire curiosity and open the door to new ideas.
I no longer worry about whether I fit the traditional idea of a reader. I’ve learned that everyone connects with stories differently. For me, every story has value and deserves to be shared — and sometimes all it takes is finding the one that sparks your curiosity.
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