Jacqueline Wilson backs kids’ reading challenge
Children’s author Dame Jacqueline Wilson is backing a fun-filled free reading challenge for young readers across Stirling.
Organised by the Reading Agency and delivered locally by Stirling Council Libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge runs until August 15 and encourages children (aged four to 11) to borrow and read six books during the summer break.
With libraries still closed due to the Covid-19 crisis, the popular annual programme – enjoyed by 700,000 children in the UK each summer - is going digital for the first time.
This year’s theme for the challenge is‘Silly Squad’– a team of animal friends who love to go on adventures. A wide range of events and activities will be available for participants on the Silly Squad website.
Children will be able to sign up for free online and borrow e-books from Stirling Council Libraries as well as reading books they have at home. Listening to audio books, reading e-books and being read to all count, so no one is excluded.
As in previous years children who complete the challenge will be presented with a certificate and a medal by libraries’staff once this is safe to do so.
Dame Jacqueline, who created the popular Tracy Beaker series, said:“I feel the Summer Reading Challenge is extra important this year. How sensible to have a‘silly’theme.
“We’ve all had to deal with serious and scary issues, so it’s time for a bit of fun. There are so many comical and crazy children’s books to cheer us all up. Let’s get reading and get happy.”
The council’s community planning and regeneration convener Councillor Chris Kane said:“The summer break is the perfect time for children to dive into books, open up a world of adventure and develop a lifelong love of reading, with all the benefits it brings.
“Lockdown has been tough on children in particular, so this summer’s challenge is a timely opportunity for them to have fun and learn at the same time – the only silly thing would not to get involved.”
To join the‘Silly Squad’in this year’s summer reading challenge, head here: https:// summerreadingchallenge.org. uk/