North Somerset libraries are calling for children to sign up to read six books this summer as part of Space Chase, the Summer Reading Challenge 2019.

The Summer Reading Challenge, which launches at libraries next Saturday (13 July), asks 4-11 year olds to borrow and read any six library books over the summer. The theme for the 2019 Summer Reading Challenge is Space Chase, inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children will team up with futuristic family The Rockets for an exciting space mission as they track down books nabbed by a mischievous band of aliens. As children read library books for the Summer Reading Challenge, they will receive special stickers, some with mysterious smells. By adding these stickers to their collectable mission folders, young readers will help the Rockets solve clues, dodge asteroids and discover the missing books, having lots of fun and adventures along the way.

To take part, families are invited to bring children aged 4-11 along to their nearest library to sign up from Saturday 13 July. It’s totally free and they get a special mission folder to record their Summer Reading Challenge journey. As they read any six library books of their choice they will collect special stickers over three further visits to the library during the summer. The challenge runs until Saturday 7 September and if children complete it by then they will receive a certificate and medal.

Libraries will have staff and volunteers on hand to help children choose books they will really enjoy. Research shows that children who take part in the challenge return to school after the summer break as more fluent, confident and happy readers.

A programme of events and activities is planned in libraries for families over the summer to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge, including crafts, Lego and other fun. Just contact your local library or go to www.n-somerset.gov.uk/events to find out how to take part.