Here I will introduce you to the ones that caught my eye and would be easy to

introduce to the children in your school (or even your own children) and could

inspire the children to keep reading over the upcoming Summer holidays. 

How to enter to be in with a chance to win £250 of books:

Your pupils create a list of 25 – 30 titles they would love in school, thinking about:

• Books that feel like mirrors – reflecting their own experiences, identities or emotions
• Books that feel like windows – offering glimpses into new perspectives and worlds
• Stories that help them connect, relax, learn, or feel inspired

Then, pupils record a short video, audio clip, or written explanation that tells us:

• How they gathered ideas
• Why these books matter
• How they’ll share their recommendations with classmates

This doesn’t have to be polished, it just needs to be their voice!

Most of us are familiar with the Booker Prize for Fiction but there has, somewhat surprisingly, never been the same for children’s fiction. So, all that is about to change in 2027 with the introduction of this, but of course the judges need to be children, if it is focusing on books that kids read! 

So although there are 3 prestigious adult judges of Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Lolly Adefope and Sanchita Basu De Sarkar, the process is starting with the selection of child judges. 

Entries for the child judge competition are now invited from parents, carers and educators on behalf of their children, pupils and young people.

The three successful child entrants will each get:

the eight shortlisted books to read and keep;

a judges’ medal;

a trip to London for a fun day choosing the winner with the adult judges;

a bespoke portrait by Beano illustrator Nigel Parkinson;

a Beano comic strip capturing their judging experience;

and another trip to London for the ceremony at Young V&A, which will feature a red carpet with VIP guests, entertainment stations, and the chance to present the winner/s their trophy on stage. 

This is open for children 8-12 and can be entered by a teacher or a parent/ carer.

The 2026 Summer Reading Challenge is Read to the Beat, delivered by The Reading Agency in partnership with public libraries and powered by Universal Music Group UK.

The theme inspires children to explore the connection between stories and songs, discovering how reading and music both ignite imagination and creativity.

This year’s Challenge is brought to life with illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator, Harry Woodgate.

The Challenge will launch on 20 June in Scotland and 4 July in England and Wales.

Become a Bookmark Partner school.