The Big Summer Read officially opens on December 1st, and StoryBox is thrilled to release our official BSR title - George the Wizard, read by the author himself, Tony Armstrong! We're so excited to be a part of Australia's largest reading initiative and to help get books into the hands of kids this summer. 

Now in its 5th year, the Big Summer Read aims to address the ‘summer slide’ – the dip in literacy skills that occurs when kids step away from school over the holidays. And while we know that kids deserve sunshine and down-time over the long break, we’re also committed to helping combat the alarming decline in recreational reading noted among our young people.

Studies around the world have found that reading for pleasure is the single most important indicator of a child’s future success, even more powerful than socio-economic background (OECD Reading for Change Report). Encouraging kids to pick up a book has proven benefits for their mental and physical wellbeing as well as literacy skills, emotional competence and academic achievement (Australia Reads).

At StoryBox, we agree with Dr Bree Kitt, lecturer in Education from Central Queensland University, that summer is a great time for children to ‘experience reading for relaxation and pleasure, not just academic gain.’  

Running from December 1st to January 31st, the Big Summer Read encourages children between 0 –18 to stay engaged with books and their local libraries during the summer holidays. This year the campaign has expanded beyond Victoria to include public libraries in Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. Participating library services across the country offer incentive prizes, as well as a national prize draw to encourage the efforts of young readers, and kids can earn digital badges along the way by logging any books they read, listen to, or watch in audio (and that includes all your favourite StoryBox reads!). Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to read aloud to young people and log their reading as part of the challenge.

The Big Summer Read is a great way to encourage your young people to take time over the holidays to discover reading for pleasure, to stay connected with books and literacy, and to explore their local library. And with Tony Armstrong and Emma Sjaan Beukers magical George the Wizard, as well as over 600 other award-winning, engaging Australian stories in our library, StoryBox is a great place to launch your kids into the summer reading journey. Check out our Big Summer Read Ambassador Stories & Recommended Reads collection (found in your dashboard when logged in) to get started!

Head to Read Books to register and find out more. https://readbooks.com.au/bsr

The Big Summer Read is available through participating libraries in VIC / NSW / TAS / QLD / SA. If you live outside of these states, talk to your local library about what summer reading programs may be offered in your community.

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