The Summer Reading Challenge Launches This Saturday

Norton Canes Community Library invites local families to discover the joy of reading with the 2025 ‘Story Garden’ Summer Reading Challenge

Norton Canes Community Library is inviting families across Norton Canes to take part in The Reading Agency’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging children to explore the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world with this year’s theme: Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors.

Launching on 21 June in Scotland and online, and on 5 July in England and Wales, the Summer Reading Challenge invites children aged 4–11 to visit their local library, discover new books, and enjoy a summer filled with fun, imagination, and outdoor inspiration.

Featuring beautiful illustrations by award-winning artist Dapo Adeola, Story Garden offers young readers a world of stories, creatures, and nature-based adventures. Children can collect free activity packs, take part in nature-themed events, and borrow specially selected books — all designed to keep them curious, active, and engaged with reading over the summer holidays.

Will Bird at Norton Canes Community Library said :

“We’re really excited to welcome children and families back for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. It’s a brilliant way to spark a love of reading while encouraging young minds to explore nature and creativity. This year is extra special for us — our wonderful volunteer Jean Hill has made some amazing cushions as prizes for the first 60 children to complete the Challenge. We’re looking forward to a summer full of stories, imagination, and fun!”

Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, added:

“The Summer Reading Challenge continues to be a bright light in what has recently been an uncertain picture of children's reading. Story Garden will create magical spaces where children can explore and be curious, combining the joy of reading with the wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature. We’re particularly excited to be working with Dapo Adeola, whose illustrations will bring these adventures to life.”

Now in its 26th year, the Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with public libraries and is completely free to join. In 2024, the Challenge reached nearly 600,000 children and inspired over 100,000 new library memberships across the UK.

To find out how to join in the fun and discover events happening at Norton Canes Community Library, visit www.nortoncanescommunitylibrary.co.uk or go to www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.