Seventy-five percent of students participating in the program are Maoris and Pacific Islanders. Twice a year the Books in Home program sends schools lists of available books suitable for various reading levels. Students select the titles they want in consultation with teachers, and, once they arrive, the books are handed out at a special school assembly. The assembly is usually led by a ''hero,'' such as an All-Black rugby player or television personality, who gives a short personal talk to promote reading as a worthwhile habit. Educators say that the ''Duffy Program'' has not only encouraged primary school students to read more but has led to demonstrable improvements in how well they do so.
Teachers agree on the importance of ownership.
Caroline Mareko, who teaches new entrants at Cannon's Creek, said that the students take great pride in their new possessions, which in many cases are the first books they have ever had. I asked the students how many had books in their homes, and hardly any hands went up,'' he recalled in a recent interview. Mr. Duff found this distressing because, as he put it, ''The world operates on the written word. If you're not into the written word, and you don't have a method for reflecting on your life, then you will never be free. He resolved to organize a book drive, and shortly afterwards he received a call from Christine Fernyhough, a prominent Aucklander who had heard about his work and volunteered to help out.