Interactive sessions aim to show youngsters joy of reading

A project run by Derby Book Festival has teamed up with local libraries for an initiative that will allow youngsters to experience the joy of reading.

The festival’s Shared Reading Project and Derby City Libraries have come together for the initiative, which will run during the October half-term.

Children aged five to seven can join a free reading session where Shared Reading volunteers will be on hand to help them apply for their very own Blue Peter Book Badge.

The interactive reading sessions will take place at libraries in Mickleover, Normanton, and Riverside (located within the Council House).

During each session, Shared Reading’s trained volunteers will read poems from the book ‘Poems Aloud’ by the former Waterstones Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho.

Children will also be encouraged to create a drawing inspired by the front cover of the book.

They will then learn how to create a short review at home, which is the last step before applying for their very own Blue Peter Book Badge.

Blue Peter launched the Book Badge initiative in 2023 to inspire young readers.

The badge was launched on International Literacy Day in 2023 and has been designed by renowned illustrator, Sir Quentin Blake.

Rose Braisby, Shared Reading’s strategic lead, said “This initiative is all part of our commitment to reaching the community and highlighting the joy of reading together.

“Research continues to show that encouraging children to read from a young age can have a lasting positive impact, and we hope to inspire children with a new approach to Shared Reading this October half-term.”

Catherine Mitchell, Stock Librarian – Performance and Management, at Derby City Council, said: “The partnership between Derby Book Festival and Derby Libraries is an exciting opportunity to inspire a love of reading in children.

“Through Shared Reading we can bring stories to life for young readers, giving them a chance to talk about their favourite books and have fun in a creative way.

“As part of the collaboration, children can find out how to earn a Blue Peter badge, adding even more excitement to their reading journey.”

For more information about Shared Reading visit https://www.derbybookfestival.co.uk/community/shared-reading.