The summer holidays are nearly upon us. However for you bookworms, who are mourning the loss of your school libraries, Norfolk’s book fest is just beginning. This year’s summer reading challenge celebrates the 100th anniversary of Roald Dahl’s birthday. The reading challenge this year is aptly named the Big Friendly Read after our favourite giant.
The Summer Reading Challenge is an annual event which sees thousands of children across the country read 6 books from the library. The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps get three quarters of a million children into libraries each year to keep up their reading skills and confidence. The challenge is targeted at all children. Anyone of any ability can join. A wide range of reading material and genres counts towards the challenge such as; fact books, joke books, picture books and audio books.
The challenge is split into three sections. Every time you read two books you receive a reward. Certificates are awarded to children who complete the challenge in an award ceremony. Having done the challenge, since it first started, I can definitely vouch for it being a brilliant advocate of children’s literature. Through the challenge you can discover new genres and uncover brilliant books. The summer reading challenge is also a great way to meet new children with similar interests as you. Some libraries also host special events and workshops connected with the summer reading challenge. For example, Fakenham library is hosting author events and a workshop where they will try to create the longest story ever. Some of these events do require booking. For more information visit Norfolk libraries website or visit your local library.
The summer reading challenge is aimed at children aged from 4 to 11. However for older children there is a different challenge focusing on the creativity released by reading. This is the perfect activity for anyone interested in art, drama and creative writing. Anyone from 10-18 can take part in this alternate challenge as well as the summer reading challenge. Imagination is now in its third year. It was designed by young adults. You’ll get a log when you join, with activities to choose from to help you express your ideas about what you have read, or record how a book made you feel. The great thing about the challenge is that you don’t have to worry about not being amazing at a certain skills e.g. art, as there are so many other options: drama, music and photography. You will also get the chance to be part of a collaborative artwork being made in a library near you. You can share your work with other members on the imagination blog. To find out more about the challenges mentioned visit http://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/ http://imaginationeast.org.uk/sample-page/ . Alternatively visit your local library to find out more and sign up to challenges.
Please consider taking part in the summer reading challenge and Imagination. The both are great projects which will lead you into the magical and amazing world of reading. If you complete them you will feel a real sense of achievement. This summer head to your local library and delve into an adventure. I like to finish my blog with the inspirational tagline of the Summer Reading Challenge, “Because everything changes when we read.” How right they are!
Happy Holidays Bookworms!!!!