By Gordon, He’s Done It!

23rd July 2012
By Gordon, He’s Done It!

Local MP Gordon Henderson has finally completed his challenge to share with local youngsters his love of books, as part of the Bookstart 20 campaign.

Bookstart 20, launched by the reading charity Booktrust, was set up to promote book sharing and to celebrate the 20th birthday of Bookstart, the world-renowned early reading scheme that gives free book packs to every baby in England.

Mr Henderson began his challenge back in February, since when he has visited 20 schools in his constituency to read his own book, The Litter Angel, which he hopes to have published next year. He most recently visited Minster Primary School, St Edwards Primary School, Bobbing Primary School, Newington Primary School, Borden Primary School, West Minster Primary School and St Peters Catholic Primary School.

Mr Henderson said:

“It was a great experience to share my love of reading and writing with so many youngsters. I’ve never had such attentive audiences! I hope I’ve inspired at least some of them to explore the world of literature.

“Following on from the success of Bookstart 20 I am now supporting the Summer Reading Challenge 2012, set up by The Reading Agency.”

The Challenge began on 14th July and invites children aged 4-11 years to read six books of their choice from their local library over the summer holiday. They earn stickers along the way and will be given a certificate or Olympic-style medal when they reach their goal. The theme this year is ‘Story Lab’ which is set in a city hosting the Olympic Games.

An abundance of popular children’s authors are supporting the campaign, including Jacqueline Wilson, Malorie Blackman and children’s laureate Julia Donaldson.

For more information about the Summer Reading Challenge, please visit: www.story-lab.org.uk.

For more information about Bookstart 20, please visit: www.booktrust.org.uk.