The Summer Reading Challenge is back at Sandwell libraries – and this year children can hunt for buried treasure and become ultimate mischief makers!
The annual challenge encourages children aged four to 11 to read six library books during the long school summer holiday.
The theme this year is Mischief Makers and the scheme will run in all 19 local libraries.
There will be a special event to launch the challenge at Tipton Library this Saturday (14 July) as part of a Black Country Day fun day from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Celebrate in style with costumed characters Horrid Henry and Minion Kevin, music, poetry, children’s crafts, face painting and much more. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.
This year’s reading challenge is inspired by the much-loved children's title Beano, which celebrates its 80th anniversary.
Children will explore a map of Beanotown to find the mysterious buried treasure and become ultimate mischief makers! Dennis, Gnasher and friends will help them solve clues and collect stickers, having lots of fun and adventures along the way.
Councillor Simon Hackett, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for children's services, said: "Reading is important all year round, not just during school term time.
“Children who read for pleasure have higher literacy levels and achieve better results at school, so our libraries are great places for children to come along, choose some great books and really learn to love reading.
“The Summer Reading Challenge helps make sure children's reading doesn't dip during the holidays and I would encourage all families to pop along to their local library and get involved.”
The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps get three quarters of a million UK children into libraries each year to keep up their reading skills and confidence. Libraries also offer volunteering opportunities to young people aged 13-24 to inspire others to read and organise activities.
