The St Pancras Christmas tree is always a magical sight. Every year, from November to January, it brings joy to thousands of phone-wielding passengers who jostle to take a picture …
Each November 29th, enthusiasts and readers worldwide come together to commemorate the birthday of C.S Lewis, paying tribute to the legendary author. His narratives have etched a lasting impression on …
In this blog post, our writer, Charlotte Bateman, shares a personal account recounting her unique experiences with Braille. When it comes to famous inventions, there are certain ones that just …
As the leaves change colour and the air gets crispier, November brings not only the promise of cozy sweaters and hot chocolate but also an exciting challenge for young writers …
As the dust settles from GCSEs, students face a big step up to A-levels and a future career. For those from a family on a low income, a vocational route …
International School Library Month in October is the perfect time to dive into the fascinating world of spine-chilling books. School libraries are not just repositories of knowledge; they are also …
The rich tapestry of history is interwoven with the remarkable stories of black women who defied societal norms and blazed a trail for generations to come. These women have overcome …
Halloween a time when the air is filled with excitement and the atmosphere tingles with a sense of mystery, offers the perfect opportunity to foster a love for reading among …
The first book Alistair Simms ever read was one from the Harry Potter series. He was 13 at the time and, while he had listened to audio stories before, he’d …
In the fragile landscape of our education system, the quest for inclusivity and equality is a journey fraught with challenges. This blog post delves into the importance of Special Educational …
With fewer adults and children reading for pleasure, perhaps you need something to start you off. Here are 5 books you should read immediately.
Back to school can be both exciting yet daunting for our children. We explain what to look out for and how you can ease your child’s anxiety.
Gazing up at the night sky, a canvas of twinkling stars and mysterious darkness Can be a magical experience for kids. What if we told you that those stars form …
We spoke to Dirk Mueller-Remus, founder of Auticon, about the challenges that neurodiverse people face in the workplace, education, and the technology industry. Back in 2008, Dirk Mueller-Remus, an IT …
It’s over twenty years since beloved children’s author Jacqueline Wilson released her classic Sleepovers. And while she continues to delight us with an ever-growing collection of titles, it remains a …
Agatha Christie, the undisputed queen of mystery, left an indelible mark on the world of literature with her timeless detective novels. Her intriguing plots, brilliant characters, and unparalleled storytelling have …
Every year on September 13th, readers and fans around the world celebrate Roald Dahl Day. We explore the children author’s fascinating legacy.
11 million people in the UK are currently experiencing digital exclusion. That’s according to figures from the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA), which was set up by the Learning Foundation in 2021 as a response to Covid.
The Dodo Who Dreamed She Could Fly by Catherine Emmett is an inspiring story about incredible things that can happen if you dare to give them a try! Beautifully illustrated by Claire Powell, Catherine’s latest book was only released last week. We had the chance to interview Catherine about The Dodo Who Dreamed She Could Fly, dreams, books, and the lessons children can take away from wonderful stories like these.
The Internet has become an indispensable part of our lives, especially when it comes to education.
Mary Shelley’s legacy remains a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. Join us in honouring triumphs and struggles.
Schoolchildren in England learn about politics the hard way. With curriculums cut and teacher strikes, we find out why political literacy is so important.
Do you read for pleasure? We explore the many reasons why reading is an essential part of our human existence.
The summer slide. Also known as summer learning loss and brain drain. We find out what it is and how students can avoid it.
What memories and images spring into life when you think of school libraries? We explore the role of school libraries in education.
The works of H.P. Lovecraft work undeniably left a huge mark on modern fiction. We explore how he shaped our understanding of modern literature.
Elly Roberts is the Editor of the magazine Early Years Educator which is aimed at anyone working with children under five. We asked Elly about the importance of reading in schools.
If you notice your child struggling to keep the balance between studying for school and reading for pleasure, here are a few things you can do to help.
Reading for pleasure has lots of long-lasting benefits for students. We explain how reading positively affects a child’s curiosity.
In an era when mental health is affecting our society greatly, is it time to rethink your living space? We find out why decluttering can be great for your whole family.
If you have a bunch of unused books lying around the house, you can give them a second life by donating them. We’ve prepared a guide on what books to donate and the best ways to prepare for a donation.
The term EAL (English Additional Language) describes children exposed to one or more languages other than English in their homes. In the UK, especially in low-income schools, EAL students face …
For this year’s Schools Diversity Week (26th-30th of June), we are celebrating the efforts that schools around the country make to improve LGBTQ+ inclusion in education. Having access to diverse …
Windrush Day this year celebrates 75 years since the HMT Empire Windrush docked at Tilbury, Essex, in 1948. Onboard were more than a thousand passengers, including men, women, and children …
Diversity is a very important topic to talk about if you want to help children develop empathy and respect for others. Here are some ideas to help you explain the beautiful diversity of families to your children.
Migration has been part of the human story for thousands of years. The reasons people migrate range from the simple to the complex; war, political persecution, famine or drought, reuniting …
In November 1999, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation) proclaimed February 21st as International Mother Tongue Day, in a bid to transform education by encouraging multilingual education. International …
In 2016, the UN declared 11th February as International Day of Women and Girls In Science, to encourage more females to build careers in STEM. The STEM sector (science, technology, …
Understanding online safety is tricky for all ages. There is a wealth of books and resources available to help you make sure that your students and children know how to …
Books2All is, of course, only one of many book charities aiming to improve access to quality reading experiences for children and adults in the UK. We don’t regard this as …
This week we talk to new author, Frederick Petford Q: Hi, Frederick Petford, how are you doing? What have you been up to so far this year? It’s been a …
I am a female teacher and leader from a mixed heritage background. My parents didn’t have access to quality education or the opportunity to complete their schooling. Therefore, while growing …
The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations are in full swing up and down the nation this weekend, from street parties to barbeques in the garden. Whatever you’re doing, we’ve got some …
Since our app went live on 2 May, Books2All has been busy organising our first book donations with London schools registered to use our service. We are delighted to tell …
This week we talk to sci-fi author, Stephen Cox Q: Hi, Stephen Cox, how are you doing? What have you been up to so far this year? My second book, …
We often need to encourage children to read, but babies love books, and that’s because they associate books with closeness and warm relationships. The cosy, intimate snuggle we share with …
‘COVID-19 impact on mental health’. The headlines are all too familiar; there is no getting away from the fact that the pandemic significantly impacted everyone’s mental health. Our lives have …
It has taken a bit longer than expected, but the Books2All app is now LIVE! You can download it from the App Store and Google Play. We know you support …
Harry Potter Day 2022 on 2 May is a chance to remind ourselves of the wonderful works of J.K. Rowling. Ask most people of my generation about a memorable book …
This week we talk to self-published author, Carla Golledge Q: Hi, Carla Golledge, how are you doing? What have you been doing this year? Hello, I am really well, thank …
Developing empathy in Early Years is crucial as it is a core component of our social and emotional skills. I am one of five founders of EmpathyLab, an organisation that …
Young Writers started in 1991 out of a love of reading and writing. Since then, we’ve put our hearts into empowering avid young writers by giving them a platform to …
International Children’s Book Day (ICBD) has been celebrated by The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) on 2 April every year since 1967 to inspire a love of …
World Down Syndrome Day 2022 celebrated its tenth birthday on 21 March! World Down Syndrome Day advocates for inclusivity and the rights of those with Down syndrome. The United Nations …
This week we talk to new fiction writer, Jim McVeigh Q: Hi, Jim McVeigh, did you have a good St Patrick’s Day? What have you planned for this year? I …
Women’s History Month 2022 seems extra poignant this year. Perhaps being aware of the turmoil people are enduring elsewhere in Europe makes it more important than ever to remember people …
If you discuss mental health in the classroom with people you know, some will reflect on their experiences and tell you that high school was hard. They might recall being …
It isn’t easy to summarise what makes a good school library in just a few points, but here is a selection of what I believe are the key things to …
This week we talk to novelist, Sharon Mass Q: Hi, Sharon Mass, how are you doing? What have you planned for this year? This year, several books of mine will …
St Valentine’s Day 2022 is upon us, and Books2All has grabbed (hugged?) the chance to get our heads stuck into some slushy reading! Four love-struck members of our team decided …
Literacy is a lifelong skill. We might assume that good reading and writing abilities affect only certain career prospects, such as teaching, law and journalism. In reality, being literate helps …
As a mother and an educator, I firmly believe that bedtime reading is an invaluable gift that a parent or guardian can give their child. It takes a little discipline …
This week we are delighted to talk again to crime writer, Decima Blake Q: Hi Decima Blake, lovely to talk to you again. What have you been up to since …
Martin Luther King Day on 17 January each year commemorates the life of a man who changed America. It’s a day that celebrates inclusivity and diversity and reminds us that …
The Costa Book Awards marked its 50th year in 2021. This impressive event inspired Books2All to dig into the best-known English language book awards to uncover their history, purpose, our …
This week we talk to author, corporate communicator and political strategist, Sven Hughes Q: Hi, Sven Hughes, how are you doing? What did you get up to this year? I …
Is there anything more worrying to parents of children in Early Years than the impact of COVID-19 on education? Early Years encompasses birth to five years old and, in the …
Did you know that Tom Fletcher from this year’s Strictly Come Dancing is a dad to three boys who inspired him to write the Christmasaurus series? These enchanting books bring …
Reading for pleasure has many known health benefits, and a book club is a brilliant way to maximise your enjoyment. Members meet to share their passion for literature and reduce …
These days, it’s so easy to forget about the benefits of reading and instead sit your child in front of the TV or a tablet while you rush to do …
This week we talk to special educational needs author, Katie Carpenter Q. Hello Katie Carpenter, how are you? What have you been up to recently? Hello! I’m well, thank you. …
Children’s Grief Awareness Week 2021 runs from 18-25 November and Books2All is keen to encourage more conversations around childhood and adolescent grief. The Childhood Bereavement Network reports that 78% of …
When I started secondary school in September 2005, you queued every morning for a ‘dinner ticket’ if you were on free school meals. It wasn’t a digitised system then. On …
Whether or not you choose to celebrate Halloween, it’s hard not to be swept up by the seasonal spirit. If you or the children around you relish the festivities, you …
Does COVID-19 impact on children’s education? Sadly yes, and, as Books2All has a lens trained on anything that affects educational inequality, we are taking a deeper dive into this topic. …
This week we talk to acclaimed writer, navigator and explorer, Tristan Gooley Q: Hi, Tristan Gooley, how are you doing? What have you been up to so far this year? …
I am pleased to share my thoughts with you for ADHD Awareness Month. As a child, I didn’t know I had ADHD, and because I was academically gifted, I could …
The theme of Black History Month this year is ‘Proud to be’. Hopefully, my book choices exemplify how literature can celebrate and commemorate Black history in a uniquely personal way. …
Oops! Well that didn’t happen… Although our lovely Books2All app IS ready to go, there are some delays with making it available on the app stores. We do apologise and …
My debut piece for Books2All on reading for dyslexia coincides with Dyslexia Week. As an educator who consults on learning, teaching and assessment strategies in higher education, I am familiar …
My most recent book, Girls and Autism, discusses why we do not cater well for girls with autism. For far too long, autism has been considered a male-orientated condition. Initial …
This week we talk to prizewinning author, Diane Chandler Q: Hi, Diane Chandler, how are you doing? What have you been up to so far this year? Thanks so much …
As I look back over the year since Books2All became a registered charity, I scarcely feel the need to mention that a lot has changed since then. While it’s true …
Wednesday 8 September marks International Literacy Day and The Open University’s Reading for Pleasure programme would like to give a timely reminder to governments, civil society and educators to reflect …
With students across the country back to school over the coming days, we started thinking about stories that feature national curriculum subjects. We came up with a list of six …
This week we talk to popular children’s author, Jeremy Strong Q: Hi, Jeremy Strong, how are you doing? What have you been up to so far this year? Covid has …
We are all familiar with the idea of ‘losing yourself’ in a story. However, for a child with vision impairment, this process of becoming so deeply engrossed in what you …
The Reading Agency strives for a world where everyone reads their way to a better life. We tackle life’s big challenges through the proven power of reading1, focusing on three …
In celebration of International Friendship Day 2021 and one of literature’s greatest themes, we put our heads together at Books2All and made a shortlist of books and stories that explore …
Making a difference to children’s lives has always been at the heart of the public library offer. So much so, that the sector has created a promise that outlines the …
This week we talk to legendary children’s illustrator and writer, Nick Sharratt Q: Hi, Nick Sharratt, how are you doing? What have you been up to so far this year? …
As someone who had a career in marketing from 1990-2020 – exactly 30 years – I shall challenge my own literary skills and attempt to answer this. No prizes for …
Happy 4 July 2021 to our American readers! To commemorate this year’s Independence Day, Books2All has compiled a list of six popular children’s books from the United States that we …
The University of Cambridge Primary School, where I am executive headteacher, has always focussed on developing a love for reading. Within the school, we have reading spaces, secret reading book …
This week we talk to children’s author and screenwriter, Rupert Wallis Q: Hi Rupert Wallis, how are you? What have you been doing so far this year? Hi, thanks for …
Before I explain how our school library is the heart of the school, I need to take you back to May 2017. I started my role as reading engagement coordinator …
A love of reading is a gift all children and young people deserve, but books about LGBTQ+ play a particular role for those who are lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, …
How can we develop empathy in a child? Through reading. It’s no secret that reading helps children do better at school, have better outcomes and navigate the complexities of everyday …
This week we talk to acclaimed children’s author, Philip Womack Q: Hi, Philip Womack, how are you doing? What have you been up to this year? I’m very well, thank …
Like my colleagues, I chose a career in publishing because I believe in the importance of reading. Our job is to find stories and share them as widely as possible, …
