The Summer Reading Challenge is returning to Wilmslow Library this week encouraging children to keep up their reading during the holidays.
Organised by the Reading Agency, children are challenged to read six library books of their choice and children taking part will receive a little incentive at each stage to encourage them. Every time they finish two books the children receive a reward and there will be prizes along the way.
The theme this year is 'Animal Agents' which will introduce young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries. Animal Agents is illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series.
Librarian Marg Charlesworth explained "One of the agents, Daisy the rabbit, asks children taking part in the Challenge to help the Animal Agents crack the case, by collecting clues in the form of stickers. There is a list of 'Unusual Suspects' and children will need to work out which one of them has been up to no good!"
This year there are more additional activities planned than ever before including: Minecraft sessions, animal handling events, Lego, meeting an author, a live performance of the 100 Mile on Hour Dog by John Kirk, FunScience with a Spy theme, and craft. These are all absolutely free of charge for children who are taking part and tickets will be released shortly.
Last year in Wilmslow 670 children started the Summer Reading Challenge and nearly 450 children completed it, reading all six books.
Marg added "These children received a medal and a certificate at a special ceremony last September. It would be great if even more children took part this year!"
The Summer Reading Challenge is free to take part in, open to all primary school children and is designed for all reading abilities. You can sign up at Wilmslow Library from Saturday 1st July to receive your free pack.
Anne Sarrag, Summer Reading Challenge director for The Reading Agency, says: "Animal Agents is all free fun, which is top news for parents. So mums, dads and carers, pop down to your local library and find out more about what's happening locally, and help your children discover a love of stories this summer whilst they maintain and develop their reading skills over the summer holidays. "
All completers will be invited to an award ceremony in September to collect a medal and certificate.
