Families across England will be following Norman the bear’s adventure at Bee School this Autumn thanks to BookTrust, the UK’s largest children’s reading charity, sending a copy of children’s picture book The Bumblebear to every reception age child in the country.
The amusing and colourful picture book, written by Nadia Shireen, is being delivered to schools throughout the Autumn term as part of BookTrust’s Time to Read campaign.
Time to Read originally launched in September 2016, encouraging parents and carers of primary school aged children to keep reading with their children – even once they’ve learned to read.
BookTrust Chief Executive Diana Gerald said, “Finding the time to read together as a family can have dramatic effects on a child’s wellbeing and development. Children are more likely to read if they love books, and they’re more likely to love books if families have fun reading together anytime and anywhere.
“We are delighted every primary school starter in England will have their own copy of Nadia Shireen’s brilliant book The Bumblebear to take home and treasure with their family as part of the Time to Read Campaign. It is a playful book, with an endearing tale about friendship and loyalty which we hope every child across the country can enjoy and learn from.”
The Bumblebear was selected for BookTrust by an independent panel of experts and practitioners, who work with reception-aged children.
It was the unanimous favourite with the panel for its quality of storytelling, relatable school setting and its ability to be read aloud in a lively manner. But most importantly, it sends a lovely message of inclusivity with a well-resolved fallible element.