Bradford’s Summer Reading Challenge Kicks Off with Over 130 Free Events

Bradford Libraries has launched its Summer Reading Challenge with a packed schedule of over 130 free events and activities for children across the district.

This year’s theme, “Marvellous Makers,” promises a creative summer for young readers aged 4-12.

The challenge, which began on 6 July, encourages children to read six books over the summer. Registration is open until 14 September, allowing families plenty of time to join in. The initiative aims to combat the seasonal dip in children’s reading habits by promoting library visits and reading enjoyment.

The programme features appearances from notable authors and illustrators, including Liz Million, known for “The Great Sheep Shenanigans” and “Elephant Rides Again”; Kev Payne, author and illustrator of “Sock It To Me”; Kev Sutherland, a comic illustrator affiliated with the Beano and Marvel; and local author Deane Naryan-Lee, who wrote “The Loving Earth”.

Additionally, the events will highlight various creative workshops. These include air-dry clay workshops with Gloria Heilbron, origami sessions with Lasma Smiukse, and Lowry-inspired art with Liza Danial. Artist Dionne Hood will lead sessions on embroidery, iPad drawing, paper clay, and book box decorating.

Other activities will be provided by organisations such as Dance For Life, the National Science & Media Museum, and Bradford Museums & Galleries. Bradford 2025, the UK’s City of Culture Team, will host Les Girafes junk modelling workshops, inspired by the giant puppets arriving in Bradford in August 2024. Poetry readings by Sharena Lee-Satti and animal experiences with Lion Learners will also be part of the line-up.

For children interested in drama, there are sessions with “Stories with Liv!” and the Mud Pie Arts Theatre Company, offering opportunities to create performances based on different books and poems. Explore Learning will also conduct maths and English workshops, tying into the Summer Reading Challenge theme.

Cllr Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, expressed her enthusiasm:

“I am delighted that we are able to offer so many events and activities to our children and families over the summer.  I would encourage everyone to look at the brochure and check out what is available at their local library and go down and sign up for the summer reading challenge and enjoy the activities.”

A full list of activities and events can be found by clicking this link.

The Summer Reading Challenge, organised by The Reading Agency, is the UK’s largest reading for pleasure programme for children. Last year, public libraries issued over 14 million children’s books during the Challenge. The programme has a proven track record of improving children’s reading confidence and skills, with 80% of participants last year showing improvement.

The Marvellous Makers challenge, developed in collaboration with the charity Create, aims to celebrate creativity and encourage children to engage with reading in diverse and enjoyable ways.

Image Credit: The Reading Agency