A young reader from Brimbank, Stuart, is ready for a summer filled with exploration through books. The four-year-old will participate in the Big Summer Read, a program organized by Public Libraries Victoria that encourages children and teenagers aged 0-18 to read more over the summer holiday. This initiative runs from December 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024, allowing participants to log their completed books online for a chance to win prizes.
Stuart expressed his enthusiasm for reading, stating, “A lot of books! All of the books,” when asked about his favorite. His mother, Donna Coutts, highlighted the importance of keeping children engaged with reading during the summer months. “The Big Summer Read is something to keep us engaged with reading and learning,” she noted.
Ms. Coutts began fostering a love for literature in Stuart at an early age, sharing her own childhood books with him. “He’s got my books from when I was a kid,” she said, adding that her son often enjoys reading independently in his room. This early exposure to books has cultivated a strong interest in literature for Stuart.
The initiative aims to combat the common phenomenon of the summer reading slump, where children may lose reading momentum during their holiday break. By participating in the Big Summer Read, families can maintain a focus on literacy and learning while enjoying the joys of reading together.
Local residents are encouraged to sign up for the program through Brimbank libraries. With the support of public libraries, children like Stuart can discover new adventures and stories, making this summer a memorable one for young readers.
For more information on how to participate, visit readbooks.com.au/bsr.
