As World Book Day prepares for its 25th anniversary, with celebrations once again taking place in school, rather than at home, the charity has reported more sign-ups than ever before.
In 2021, World Book Day was celebrated at home as most children were being home schooled due to lockdown. But this year, plans are progressing for a special party as the event reaches its 25th anniversary, and more schools than ever have signed up to take part.
Cassie Chadderton, chief executive of World Book Day, told Progressive Party: “We are always delighted by the number of schools that engage with World Book Day each year, and more schools than ever are signing up to this year’s celebrations.”
Plans will soon be announced for the 25th anniversary year. Cassie continued: “This year we turn 25 so we are throwing an extra special party where everyone is invited. Each year we hope that celebrations become bigger and more inclusive as more children and families read for pleasure and enjoy reading together – our charity’s mission is to change lives through a love of books and offer every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own.”
Dressing up and celebrating books is an important part of bringing stories to life and this is more important than ever before as reading for pleasure is in decline and at its lowest level since 2005. Cassie explained: “This demonstrates the importance of improving access to reading for all, and encourage everyone to see themselves as readers, no matter what their ability is or interests are.
“We know that children enjoy being their favourite book character for the day – the key is it provides a talking point for children to discuss books and reading with their friends and family.”
Turn to page 31 to find out what costume companies have planned for this year’s celebrations, and for more from World Book Day.
