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Enter the Story Garden in libraries this summer

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Children in North Somerset are invited to join in the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, Story Garden which starts on Saturday 5 July.

The Summer Reading Challenge, developed by the Reading Agency, encourages children aged four to 11 to read or listen to books over the summer holidays. They can collect free rewards for reading from their local library.

The 2025 Summer Reading Challenge will finish on Saturday 13 September and this summer, The Reading Agency invites children to step into the magical world of Story Garden. With stunning artwork by illustrator Dapo Adeola, children will uncover stories that celebrate the great outdoors and the power of imagination.

For the first year, children under the age of four can also join the challenge and receive their own sticker collection folder and a shiny sticker medal and certificate at the end of the challenge.

North Somerset Council will be running craft events and special storytimes throughout the summer (more details from local libraries) and children’s author Helen Docherty will be visiting Yatton (am) and Worle (pm) libraries on Tuesday 26 August.

Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s cabinet member for Libraries said: “This national scheme is a fantastic way to encourage children to read for fun over the holidays and improve their reading skills, during a period when we know reading can dip.

“Last year’s challenge was a great success and I hope our young people enjoy this year’s theme of the great outdoors.

If you haven’t yet signed your family up, there’s still time – just pop into your local library, or visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.”

Cllr Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s cabinet member for Children’s Services, Lifelong Learning and Skills added: “Since 1999, the summer reading challenge has provided a fun, free activity for children aged four to 11 and I'm delighted to see it in our libraries across North Somerset.

“It is a bright light on the path to inspiring a real passion in children for reading outside of the classroom.

“Reading is power - it boosts imagination and creativity and this year's theme is all about combining the joy of reading with the benefits of connecting with nature.

"It will allow children to explore the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world.”