Inspire Young Readers: Join the Book Challenge!
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Dive into the adventure of reading with the Hands-On Book Challenge—a set of free challenges designed to ignite children’s love for books, whatever their age. Spark curiosity and imagination as each challenge pack encourages kids to sample different kinds of stories and discover what they enjoy most.
What is the Book Challenge?
The Hands-On Book Challenge provides three tailored packs for different age groups:
- Early Years (EYFS): Perfect for ages 4-5
- KS1: Ideal for ages 5-7
- KS2: Designed for ages 7-11
Each pack offers a variety of creative and hands-on activities to motivate young readers to try new genres, authors, and formats. Families and educators can adapt the activities to suit each child’s unique interests and reading level, making literacy development fun and stress-free. Participation is flexible—completing every task isn’t required for reward, and certificates celebrate effort and exploration at any pace.
Why Take Part in a Book Challenge?
Book challenges are a powerful way to get children excited about reading while building important skills. Sharing stories together supports vocabulary, helps children express emotions, and unlocks new worlds, characters, and ideas. By reading widely, children can strengthen imagination, discover personal interests, and learn about other cultures and viewpoints. The benefits go far beyond literacy—books nurture empathy, boost confidence, and create joyful memories.
Celebrating World Book Day
World Book Day is an annual highlight for book lovers, inviting everyone to celebrate the magic of stories. Whether through school events or home-based celebrations, families can join in by dressing up as favorite storybook characters, crafting book-inspired scenes, or experimenting with themed activities. Try making a dream potion, inspired by “The BFG”, using colorful water and glitter to bring books to life with play and creativity.
Make the Most of Your Local Library
Libraries are treasure troves for young readers—free to browse and borrow, they help make books accessible to all. Many libraries run special summer reading challenges to keep children engaged during holidays, offering a supportive community of fellow book explorers.
Recommended Reads for Kids
Graphic novels and illustrated stories are often favorites, as their mix of visuals and text boost reading confidence and engagement. Current hits with young readers might include:
- “The Bad Guys” by Aaron Blabey
- “Tom Gates” series by Liz Pichon
- “Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey
- “Investigators” by John Patrick Green
- “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney
Children can also enjoy a mix of classic adventures, animal stories, and tales from around the world—whatever sparks their imagination.
Start Your Family’s Reading Adventure
The Hands-On Book Challenge is free and easy to join. Download your age-appropriate pack, explore books together, and let each child’s interests lead the way. Combine these challenges with events like World Book Day or your local library’s summer reading program for even more fun and motivation.
Reading unlocks a world of possibilities—embark on your challenge today and watch children’s confidence and love for learning grow!