Esther Lee, western Sydney’s pint-size prodigy recites classic poetry
ESTHER Lee blew up the internet with her ability to recall capitals of countries as a two-year-old. Fast forward and the four year old has added classic poetry to her repertoire.
Parramatta
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RECITING poetry, recalling Australia’s prime ministers and speaking three languages are the newest skills for one of western Sydney’s brightest youngsters.
Esther Lee reached celebrity status two years ago when she was able to name every capital city of the world’s 195 independent countries at just two years old, showing off her talent on breakfast television.
Fast forward two years and the Girraween four-year-old, who is quick to tell you she is almost five, has added to her repertoire.
She can recite Invictus, a poem by William Ernest Henley on request, as well as a range of other classics. She speaks Mandarin, English and Spanish and is well advanced with addition, subtraction and even multiplication.
“I wake up reciting poetry,” the four-year-old said with a giggle.
Asked how she remembered all the words, she said: “I do it every day.”
Of course, Esther can write her name, numbers and knows the months of the year.
Her father Shu Lee is a Mandarin and humanities teacher.
“I was reading poetry to her for fun then she began reciting the classics,” he said.
“She’s pretty eager to learn.”
Esther does not use devices or watch television, instead opting for a well-used exercise book filled with photocopies of the solar system, idioms, poetry and mathematics to recall and learn.
“I did personal research and evidence from neurologists, parenting experts and famous people suggested we steer from screens,” Mr Lee said.
“It all started when Esther was a baby. I wanted to give her a basic education and would sit down and read books to her.
“From there I have created material for her. I spend a lot of time with her, teaching her new things.”
Entering the education system, at Girraween Public School this week, reduces the time Mr Lee will spend with his daughter.
“We’ll definitely be maintaining the learning at home — in English, Mandarin and Spanish,” he said.
“Even people who know Esther are amazed at what she can do.”