A SPECIAL Beano inspired reading game has been launched in Solihull for children over the summer holidays.
The Summer Reading Challenge asks children between four and 11 to borrow and read any six library books.
The theme of the challenge this year is ‘Mischief Makers’, inspired by Beano – the much-loved children’s cartoon which celebrates its 80th anniversary today.
Children will explore a map of Beanotown to find a hidden treasure chest full of pranks and become mischief makers themselves.
As children finish each book, they will receive special stickers, some with mysterious smells.
By adding these stickers to their map, young readers will help Dennis, Gnasher and friends solve clues and discover the treasure.
The council is encouraging children to sign up at their nearest library where they will be given the collector’s map of Beanotown.
Mischief Makers runs until Saturday, 8 September, and children who complete the challenge will receive a certificate and a gold medal.
Councillor Joe Tildesley, cabinet member for leisure, tourism and sport, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way for children to keep up their reading skills over the summer, have fun and try out some great new authors.
“Last year 4,000 children took part and 94 young people volunteered to help make it happen.
“I am delighted to be involved this year and present some of the children at The Core Library with gold medals to mark their achievements.”
Sue Wilkinson, chief executive of The Reading Agency, said: “At The Reading Agency, we believe that everything changes when we read and we know from our research how much fun families and children have when taking part in the challenge.
“Mischief Makers offers intergenerational appeal and we hope this family friendly, accessible theme will inspire more children than ever to read over the holidays and make use of their local library throughout the summer and beyond.”
The council says a whole programme of fun is planned at Solihull libraries for families over the summer to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge.
These include visits from authors B. B. Taylor and Jane Batsford, storytimes, board games and craft activities.
Children can win vouchers for a free swim at Solihull’s leisure centres and also enter a free prize draw.
Prizes include £25 to spend at Waterstones or Touchwood, family tickets to the National Motorcycle Museum, the panto at The Core Theatre or to Disney on Ice.
Just contact your local library or go to: www.solihull.gov.uk/Resident/Libraries/childrenandyoungpeopleslibrary
