Somerset Council is encouraging children to turn up the volume on reading this summer by inviting primary school children across the county to take part in the Reading Agency’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, launching on Saturday 4 July.
Leader Bill Revans and Lead Member for Communities Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts joined forces at the newly reopened Bridgwater Library to trumpet the Challenge with its theme this year of Read to the Beat that aims to inspire children aged 4-11 to explore the connection between stories and songs, discovering how reading and music both ignite imagination and creativity.
Cllr Revans said:
This year is the National Year of Reading, and we want to encourage even more primary school children to make reading part of their summer adventures. Books have the power to open doors to new worlds, spark imagination and inspire curiosity, and we hope children across Somerset will discover that for themselves.
It’s so easy to join the Challenge: visit your local library, sign up and set off on a reading journey like no other. The challenge is simple and fun: read six books over the summer holidays, collect exciting rewards along the way, and earn a badge for completing the adventure!.
It would also be amazing if parents, carers and family members of all ages role modelled this for children by committing to reading six books over the summer. I encourage everyone to take part!
Cllr Smith-Roberts said:
Studies show that if a child can’t read well by the age of 11, and this can impact their life choices and skills. We’re on a mission to change this.
The Summer Reading Challenge, funded by Arts Council England, encourages children to keep reading during the summer holidays, ensuring they are ready for a great start to the new term in the autumn.
With a fantastic collection of books inspired by music from around the world, children can explore stories, poetry, graphic novels, and non-fiction for all reading levels. Best of all, books are FREE to borrow from your local library.
To find out more about how to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge pop into your local library or visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
