Thursday 3 March 2016

WORLD BOOK DAY 2016 by Sharon Tregenza

I drew the long straw. As I'm sure you know this ABBA post falls on WORLD BOOK DAY. The nineteenth World Book Day to be exact.

It is, of course, a celebration of authors, illustrators and books, but most of all it's a celebration of reading.







Designated by UNESCO the celebration is worldwide - marked in over 100 countries. The origins of the day we celebrate in the UK and Ireland come from Catalonia, where roses and books were given as gifts on St Georges's Day - a tradition that began over 90 years ago.


National Book Tokens Ltd, publishers and booksellers, give away millions of book vouchers to children and young people. The children take that voucher to a local bookseller and pick one of ten completely free books. Or, if they'd rather they can use it to get a pound off any book or audio book costing over £2.99.



Giving them the opportunity to have a book of their own will hopefully encourage kids to explore the pleasures of books and reading for themselves. They'll find authors and stories they enjoy and will continue to enjoy.

World Book Day is a partnership of publishers, booksellers and interested parties who work together to promote books and reading for the personal enjoyment of all.




For more information, ideas and resources try these websites:


       This website has information and teaching resources for World Book Day in the UK and Ireland.

       Educational resources to access online and download from the Book Trust website.

        A website to promote the benefits of reading at all stages of life. There are different sections for young children, teenagers, families and adults. It's run by the National Literary Trust.














1 comment:

Sue Purkiss said...

Happy World Book Day, and thanks for the links!