The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge is kicking off in Scotland with an exciting event featuring award-winning storyteller Danyah Miller.
On 29 June at 10.30am, Edinburgh Central Library will host Making Marvellous Stories with Danyah Miller, an interactive storytelling experience that celebrates the power of imagination and creativity.
Danyah Miller, an international solo performer, writer, and story trainer, will lead an engaging spontaneous storytelling hour. Through story games and collaborative storytelling, children and families will embark on a journey to spark their imaginations and create lasting memories together.
Oral storytelling is a fundamental component of literacy development, enhancing fluency, vocabulary acquisition, writing skills, recall, and memory. By participating in this event, children will not only have a fun and interactive experience but also develop essential literacy skills.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage in story games, make up fresh, new stories together, and learn tips and tricks for endless storytelling fun. The event promises to be an unforgettable experience, igniting the imaginations of children and families alike.
“We left full of ideas and inspiration,” said a mum of boys aged 7 and 9 after attending one of Danyah’s previous storytelling events.
In addition to the storytelling experience, the Summer Reading Challenge, developed in partnership with Create, a leading charity bringing creative arts to those in need, offers a range of exciting activities and resources that bring reading and creativity together throughout the school holiday. Children are encouraged to explore their creativity through various outlets, including junk modelling, music, dance, drawing, and painting.
The Making Marvellous Stories with Danyah Miller event is free and open to the public. Families are invited to join this unforgettable experience and embark on a journey of storytelling and creativity at Edinburgh Central Library.
New report reveals reading for enjoyment is at it’s lowest in nearly 20 years
More than 190 Edinburgh children have taken part in storytelling sessions designed to inspire a love of reading, as new research reveals that reading for enjoyment among 8 – 18-year-olds in the UK is at its lowest since 2005 – for almost two decades.
According to the National Literacy Trust, reading for enjoyment is proven to build a child’s confidence as well as make them feel happy and relaxed, yet only 41.5% of children and young people from Scotland say they enjoy reading in their free time.
The events have been organised by Fort Kinnaird as part of the Young Readers Programme, an award-winning initiative between its co-owner British Land and the National Literacy Trust, that aims to encourage children to read outside of the classroom.
Storyteller Luke Winter joins P3, P4 and P5 for Young Reader’s Programme at Niddrie Mill Primary School, Edinburgh.
Children from Castleview, Niddrie Mill, and Brunstane primary schools enjoyed a performance from a professional storyteller and took part in a range of fun activities including a bookmark making workshop. Each child was also given a book of their choice to take home for free, the third book this year gifted as part of the wider programme.
2024 marks the thirteenth year of British Land’s partnership with the National Literacy Trust, and since the programme launched at Fort Kinnaird, it has supported more than 2,700 school children and seen more than 8,200 books donated across Edinburgh.
P4 – Young Reader’s Programme comes to P3, P4 and P5 at Niddrie Mill Primary School, Edinburgh.
The Young Readers Programme is especially designed to provide additional support and help with the development of children in under privileged areas by giving them better access to books.
The National Literacy Trust research revealed that fewer young people who received free school meals (FSM) said they enjoyed reading when compared to their peers who did not receive free school meals (39.5% FSM vs 43.8% non-FSM).
P4 – Isla 8 and Marcie 8.
Young Reader’s Programme comes to P3, P4 and P5 at Niddrie Mill Primary School, Edinburgh.
Liam Smith, centre manager at Fort Kinnaird,said: “Supporting our community is at the heart of what we do, so we are incredibly proud of the Young Readers Programme and all the local children and families we have been able to support over many years.
“It’s such a rewarding initiative, hearing how the children are inspired by the stories and activities and seeing just how excited they are to take their own book home. This is a programme that really makes a difference and we’re so pleased to be a part of it for another brilliant year.”
Storyteller Luke Winter joins P3, P4 and P5 for Young Reader’s Programme at Niddrie Mill Primary School, Edinburgh.
Martin Galway, Head of School Programmes at the National Literacy Trust, said: “Sparking a love of reading can change a child’s life. It can inspire children’s imagination, provide comfort and escape, build confidence, and support improved literacy skills which are the foundation for all learning.
“Through the Young Readers Programme, we have partnered with British Land for the last 13 years – giving children from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to experience enchanting storytelling events, and to choose and keep books that speak to their interests and passions.
“Our goal is to inspire a love of books and reading that will stay with them forever, which in turn will provide them with essential literacy and life skills they need to succeed and reach their own goals.”
· Nationwide study from Renaissance, including over 37,000 pupils from Scotland, reveals a 4.4% decrease in the number of books read by pupils year-on-year
· Decline in reading hits Scottish secondary students, with those in years S2-S4 reading at a level three years behind their chronological age, but increasing daily reading time could offer significant improvements in attainment
· Children search for more representative and aspirational role models, as books by Marcus Rashford, Maria Isabel Sanchez and Bryan Patrick Avery top the reading charts
The annual ‘What Kids Are Reading Report’, a nationwide study including over 37,000 pupils in Scotland from leading edtech provider, Renaissance, shows a 4.4% year-on-year decrease in the number of books being read by children from P1 to S4.
For the last 16 years, the report has tracked the book-reading habits of the nation’s pupils, and this is the first time, outside of the first year of the pandemic, there has been a decline in the number of books read since research began in 2008. 26,114,262 books were read by 1,273,795 pupils in the 2022-2023 academic year[1] compared to 27,265,657 by 1,282,647 pupils in the previous academic year[2].
The downturn in book reading echoes similar findings in declining reading attainment shown in longitudinal research[3] on post-pandemic learning recovery from Renaissance and the Educational Policy Institute (EPI).
Additional research[4] from Renaissance and GL Assessment shows teachers believe a third (33%) of their pupils are weak readers and that children are struggling to keep up with the curriculum due to their reading ability. A quarter (26%) of pupils are taken out of class for reading support with, on average, half a day of curriculum time per week given to helping students read.
Secondary reading slump in Scottish schools, but more reading time leads to higher attainment
Reading decline is particularly acute in secondary schools. The report finds pupils read harder books as they get older, but during secondary school there is a downturn. In Scotland, year P6 pupils are reading at their chronological age. In year P7 pupils are suddenly reading a year behind their chronological age, in year S1 two years behind, and in years S2-S4 at least three years behind.
However, the research also confirms the link between more reading time in school with higher reading attainment. When considering Engaged Reading Time (ERT) and Cumulative Number of Words Read (see Figure 3), we see further evidence of the impact of the time spent reading – the more time is allocated to reading, the greater the number of words read, with the biggest gains occurring when ERT exceeds 30 minutes per day.
Additionally presented in the What Kids Are Reading report are findings from a survey[5] of 71,351 pupils by the National Literacy Trust (NLT). With these figures showing a 26% decrease in the number of children reading daily in their free time since 2005, time devoted to reading in the classroom is more important than ever. NLT data shows pupils’ enjoyment of reading in their free time at the lowest level since 2005 and is lowest among those receiving free school meals (39.5%) compared to those who don’t (43.8%).
Reading role models: favourite books2024
The What Kids Are Reading report reveals trends and pupils’ attitudes towards popular authors and books. Alongside popular fantasy and light-hearted fiction, this year’s New Entrants to the list of children’s favourite/most read authors/books showed a trend in children turning to books to find more representative and aspirational role models.
Footballer turned author Marcus Rashford is an inspiring role model, well-known for his advocacy and work for free school meals. His book series, The Breakfast Club Adventures, draws on his own experiences at breakfast clubs and the support they provided to him and his family growing up.
Another new entrant to the top list, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara’s Little People, BIG DREAMS series focuses on leading lights through history, from Marie Curie to Frida Kahlo. And Bryan Patrick Avery’s Black Men in Science focuses on Black men in history who have contributed to scientific developments.
The What Kids Are Reading Report was written using Renaissance data analysed by Professor Keith Topping from the University of Dundee.
Commenting on the overall decline in reading: “There are a number of possible reasons for the decline, but the high number of pupils persistently absent from school post-Covid is likely to be the biggest factor. This is especially true in secondary school as these pupils are more likely to be weaker readers.
“The key takeaway from this report is that more reading practice at an appropriate level of difficulty improves pupils’ reading performance, with more reading time in school leading to higher reading attainment.
“This has a knock-on impact on academic performance across the board. Focusing on comprehension and finding books they genuinely love will benefit pupils within and beyond the classroom. Schools and parents can support students by encouraging them to read often and consume more challenging books.”
Crispin Chatterton, former teacher and Director of Education at Renaissance, commented, “Despite the dip in overall reading levels, there is still much to celebrate in terms and depth and breadth of the books being read across the UK, Ireland and beyond.
“The What Kids Are Reading report identifies which books and authors are most engaging pupils. This is vital information for teachers to ensure pupils are reading books they really enjoy. When reading for pleasure, pupils are more likely to pay close attention to the content and it encourages a love of reading which stretches beyond their school years.
“It’s great to see children turning to books to find more representative and aspirational role models in this year’s report. We hope this means all children can see themselves reflected in the literature they consume, and that reading can support the development of a more inclusive and understanding society.”
Access the ‘What Kids Are Reading’ 2024 report here:
The successful Reading Schools programme, developed by Scotland’s national charity changing lives with reading and writing, supports schools to build a reading culture, where every pupil is encouraged to feed their imagination through books.
Reading for pleasure is central to supporting wellbeing, improving attainment across the curriculum, and boosting critical thinking, creativity, empathy and resilience.
Tynecastle High School is not only the first school in Edinburgh to be awarded the top Gold level, and it is also the first secondary school in the capital to be named a Reading School.
Celebrated author Brian Conaghan, Reading Schools ambassador for secondary schools, met with the some of the pupils who led the programme and presented the school with their trophy.
Rachel Alexander, English teacher at Tynecastle High School said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled to be awarded a Gold Reading School accreditation by Scottish Book Trust.
“Working towards this has been an absolute labour of love over the last couple of years, with pupils, staff, carers, parents, and partners in the community all working hard to demonstrate our school’s commitment to reading.
“At Tynecastle High School we believe in the power of reading to transform lives. We also know that reading is a great way to relax and a whole lot of fun.
“Some reading-related highlights from the last year or two have been our reading clubs; visits to libraries, publishers and book festivals; producing our own books in partnership with Super Power Agency; and our fantastic partnership with Edinburgh International Book Festival and their Citizen project.
“It is fantastic to be recognised for the colossal effort and drive by the whole school community to put reading at the heart of what we do. This is just the start!’
Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: ‘We are thrilled that Tynecastle High School has achieved the honour of not only being the first school in Edinburgh to be accredited with their gold Reading School trophy, but the first secondary Reading School in the city.
‘A Reading Schools accreditation is a fantastic accomplishment for pupils and teachers alike, and achieving this status is a way of demonstrating a school’s commitment to developing vibrant reading cultures and the many benefits this brings.’
For many, books are more than just sources of knowledge and entertainment; they are cherished possessions, often passed down through generations.
While most books hold sentimental value, some can also be worth a considerable amount of money. If you have a collection of old books gathering dust on your shelves, it might be time to take a closer look.
You could be sitting on a goldmine without even realising it.
Joanne Williams, a book expert from Awesome Books tells us some types of books that might be worth a small fortune.
First Editions
First editions of classic books are highly sought after by collectors. These are the initial printings of a book, often produced in limited quantities. If you have a first edition of a well-known work, it could be worth a significant amount. Look for first editions of classic literature, such as:
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
George Orwell’s 1984
Signed Copies
Books signed by the author are always in demand, especially if the author is well-known or the book is a classic. The value increases if the signature is accompanied by a personal inscription. Keep an eye out for signed copies of works by famous authors like Ernest Hemingway, J.K. Rowling, or Stephen King.
Limited Editions and Special Prints
Books that were published in limited numbers or special editions can be particularly valuable. These editions often feature unique bindings, illustrations, or forewords not found in the regular editions. Examples include:
Limited edition versions of *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien
Special illustrated editions of *Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland* by Lewis Carroll
Collector’s editions of *The Catcher in the Rye* by J.D. Salinger
Antiquarian Books
Books that are over 100 years old can be highly valuable, especially if they are in good condition. Antiquarian books can include anything from early printings of famous works to rare and obscure titles. Key factors that affect their value include the book’s condition, rarity, and historical significance. Look for:
Early editions of works by Charles Dickens
Rare printings of Shakespeare’s plays
Historical documents or first-hand accounts of significant events
Out-of-Print Books
Some books become valuable simply because they are no longer in print and hard to find. These can range from children’s books to academic texts. For example:
Original Goosebumps books by R.L. Stine
Certain vintage children’s books like The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Out-of-print works of poetry or niche academic subjects
Unique or Unusual Books
Books with unique features, such as misprints, rare bindings, or unusual content, can also be valuable. Collectors often seek out these anomalies because they represent something different from the norm. Examples include:
Misprinted editions of popular novels
Books with unique or rare bindings, such as leather-bound copies
Books with controversial or historically significant content
Potential Value of Books
On average, Brits could be sitting on books worth hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds. The value of collectible books can vary widely, but here are some general estimates:
First Editions: Depending on the book and its condition, first editions can range from £100 to several thousand pounds. For example, a first edition of *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone* has sold for over £50,000.
Signed Copies: Signed copies of books can add £50 to several thousand pounds to the book’s value. A signed copy of Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea might fetch £1,000 or more.
Limited Editions and Special Prints: These can be worth anywhere from £100 to several thousand pounds, depending on their rarity and condition.
Antiquarian Books: Values can range from £50 to tens of thousands of pounds. An early edition of Charles Dickens’ *A Christmas Carol* can be worth over £10,000.
Out-of-Print Books: These can range from £20 to several hundred pounds, depending on their popularity and rarity.
Unique or Unusual Books: Prices vary widely, but unique features can significantly increase a book’s value, potentially adding hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
Tips for Determining the Value of Your Books
Research: Use online resources like AbeBooks, eBay, and specialised rare book websites to compare prices and see what similar books are selling for.
Condition: The condition of the book greatly affects its value. Books that are in pristine condition, with intact dust jackets and minimal wear, are worth more.
Consult Experts: Consider reaching out to a rare book dealer or appraiser for a professional assessment. They can provide insight into the book’s rarity, demand, and potential value.
Joanne Williams, a book expert from Awesome Books says: “Your bookshelf could be hiding more than just great stories; it might contain valuable treasures waiting to be discovered.
“By taking the time to identify and research your collection, you could unearth books that are worth a significant amount of money.
“Whether you decide to sell these valuable books or keep them as prized possessions, knowing their worth adds a new layer of appreciation for your literary collection.”
In an era where digital screens dominate our lives, the importance of nurturing a love for reading in children cannot be overstated. However, a recent survey commissioned by Awesome Books has uncovered a concerning trend among parents in the UK.
The survey, which involved 3,000 parents with children aged 2-12, revealed that 53% of parents do not buy books for their children. This statistic raises significant questions about the future of literacy and the cultural value placed on reading within families.
The Importance of Early Reading
Reading is a fundamental skill that forms the foundation of a child’s education. Early exposure to books has been linked to numerous benefits, including improved language skills, increased empathy, and better academic performance. Books open up new worlds, stimulate imagination, and foster a lifelong love of learning. Despite these well-documented advantages, the survey results suggest that more than half of the parents surveyed are not investing in this crucial aspect of their children’s development.
Possible Reasons Behind the Decline
Several factors contribute to this decline in book purchases for children. According to the survey, the reasons are varied:
Digital Distraction: The prevalence of digital devices is a significant factor. Of the parents who don’t buy books, 35% stated that their children prefer using tablets, smartphones, and televisions for entertainment. These devices are often loaded with educational apps and ebooks, which parents believe can substitute for physical books. The convenience and engaging nature of digital content make it more appealing than traditional reading materials.
Economic Factors: Financial constraints also play a significant role. The survey found that 28% of parents cited affordability as a barrier to purchasing books for their children. For many families, budgeting for essential needs takes precedence over buying books, which might be seen as a non-essential expense. The rising cost of living and other financial pressures make it challenging for some parents to prioritise book buying.
Lack of Awareness: Some parents may not fully understand the importance of reading or might believe that their children are getting enough exposure to literature through school alone. About 20% of the parents surveyed mentioned that they rely on schools to provide sufficient reading materials and do not feel the need to purchase additional books.
Limited Access: A smaller yet notable group, 10% of parents, reported limited access to bookstores or libraries in their area as a reason for not buying books. This is particularly relevant in rural or underserved communities where access to a variety of books can be restricted.
Impact on Children
The lack of books in the home can have far-reaching consequences. Children who are not regularly exposed to reading material may struggle with literacy skills, which can affect their performance in school and their ability to succeed in life. Moreover, children who miss out on the joys of reading may be less likely to develop a love for literature as they grow older.
What Can Be Done?
Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach:
Promoting the Value of Reading: Educating parents about the benefits of reading and encouraging them to make books a priority can help shift attitudes.
Making Books Accessible: Initiatives such as book exchanges, libraries, and affordable book sales can make it easier for families to access books without significant financial strain.
Integrating Digital and Physical Reading: While digital devices are here to stay, finding ways to integrate both digital and physical reading can cater to modern preferences while still emphasising the importance of traditional books.
Joanne Williams a book expert from Awesome Books says: “The survey highlights a critical issue that needs immediate attention.
“With 53% of parents not buying books for their children, largely due to economic constraints, the allure of digital devices, and limited access, there is a pressing need to address the barriers that prevent families from engaging in this vital activity.
Canal View Primary in Wester Hailes has become the first school in Edinburgh to be given the prestigious Reading School accreditation by Scottish Book Trust.
The successful Reading Schools programme, developed by Scotland’s national charity changing lives with reading and writing, supports schools to build a reading culture, where every pupil is encouraged to feed their imagination through books.
Reading for pleasure is central to supporting wellbeing, improving attainment across the curriculum, and boosting critical thinking, creativity, empathy and resilience.
Canal View Primary is one of over 400 schools in Scotland to have been accredited through the programme and, having achieved the first level, the school is now working towards progressing to silver status.
The third, and top level, to be achieved is gold status.
Susannah Jeffries, Depute Head Teacher of Canal View Primary School said: “We are so excited to be recognised as the first accredited Reading School in Edinburgh.
“Our whole school community is so proud that, in Edinburgh – the first ever UNESCO City of Literature – we are the first school to receive this award.
“We are also absolutely delighted to represent our community in Wester Hailes in such a positive way!”
Samuel, the primary seven Reading Leadersaid: “Everyone’s worked hard to get the Reading School accreditation, especially the Reading Leaders.
“It’s great that everyone gets to share what they like to read as a whole school. I am proud and grateful that I could help the team get the award and spread the reading bug to everyone in our school.”
Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: “We are thrilled that Canal View Primary has achieved the honour of being the first school in Edinburgh to be accredited as a Reading School.
“A Reading Schools accreditation is a fantastic accomplishment for pupils and teachers alike, and achieving this status is a way of demonstrating a school’s commitment to developing vibrant reading cultures and the many benefits this brings.”
Children’s author Yvonne Banham, who was a nurse for ten years before deciding to embark upon her lifelong dream of becoming a children’s novelist, will be taking over the reading chair at the free Book Club at The Centre, Livingston on Saturday, 16th March.
The aim of the book club is to give visitors to the shopping centre the opportunity to join in regular storytelling and interactive sessions with award-winning authors and discover new books.
Yvonne, who was also a lecturer in Higher Education and won a Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, (SCBWI), Undiscovered Voices Award in 2020, grew up on the island of Walney, off the coast of Cumbria and spent lots of time huddled on the wild beach with a scary book.
When she left school, she couldn’t decide whether to be a nurse, an artist, or a writer, so she tried them all and decided she liked words best.
Yvonne, who now lives in Stirlingshire and writes paranormal/fantasy fiction for readers age 10-14 years old, will be talking about how she became an author and read extracts from her book, ‘The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie’.
The book is a ghost filled, paranormal ‘whydunnit’, packed with ghouls, shapeshifters and a grumpy gargoyle played out with lots of humour in the dark underbelly of Edinburgh’s Old Town with themes of friendships, trust, personal boundaries and the joy of found family.
Her interactive sessions will include tips on crafting your own scary story with ghosts, monsters and magical creatures, making the ‘monster’ the hero, and what makes a great villain. Kids will also have the chance to create their own bookmark.
The two 45-minute sessions on Saturday, 16th March will take place at 11am and 1pm across from Waterstones where Yvonne’s book can be purchased and personally signed on the day.
Yvonne said: “I love any opportunity to talk about books, reading and writing, so was thrilled to be invited to The Centre, Livingston to take part in their brilliant Book Club initiative.
“I’m really looking forward to talking about Delores Mackenzie’s spooky Edinburgh adventures as well as chatting to readers about their own fantastic ideas.”
Patrick Robbertze, Centre Director at The Centre, Livingston, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming the very talented author Yvonne Banham to our free Book Club which is designed to give our shoppers the chance to meet lots of award-winning authors and hear extracts from the fantastic books they’ve written.
“The sessions are very interactive and great fun, with visitors also getting the chance to pick up a copy of the books from Waterstones and get them personally signed on the day too.”
Authors and illustrators who have taken up residency at the Book Club since it launched last year, include Catherine Rayner, Justin Davies, Morag Hood, Lindsay Littleson and Linda Erskine.
Further details can be found on The Centre, Livingston website, www.thecentrelivingston.com and @shopthecentre on Facebook and Instagram.
Children across the UK will be exploring the wonderful world of reading on World Book Day®, Thursday 7 March.
World Book Day® aims to encourage reading for pleasure, especially because it is the biggest indicator of a child’s future success in life. It also aims to make sure every child can have a book of their own to read.
For 2024, the theme is ‘Read Your Way’, and children are being encouraged to read any way they like to, whether it be out loud, in their heads, a sentence, a chapter or a page.
Here at the Royal National Institute of Blind people (RNIB), we want to make sure that children with vision impairments can celebrate the power of reading alongside their sighted peers. This means giving them access to the same books and reading opportunities at school and at home.
That’s why we have accessible versions of all of this year’s World Book Day UK titles available in audio and braille as part of our RNIB Library.
This year’s range of books provides adventure, mystery and laughter and titles include Elmer And The Patchwork Story by David McKee, Loki: Tales Of A Bad God by Louie Stowell and The Doomsday Date by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé.
There’s something to suit beginner readers right through to confident book lovers.
Children can have their very own World Book Day® copy to keep, in either braille or CD! The books can be ordered in their preferred format from RNIB’s Helpline on 0303 123 9999.
This #LibrariesWeek Scottish Book Trust is celebrating the profound impact school libraries have on shaping the lives of our children, through nurturing a love for reading and supporting wider wellbeing:
