What is Stoke 100 Reads?
We’ve been on the hunt to find our city’s 100 favourite children’s books as part of our mission to #GrowAGenerationOfReaders.
So, together with Stoke-on-Trent Libraries, we’ve gathered votes from thousands of people across the community who have shared their favourite books that they want everyone in Stoke to enjoy. Finally, the results are in!
Our special Stoke 100 Reads book lists are ready for you to explore:
Explore Stoke 100 Reads Resources
We know that when children have books recommended to them, they are more likely to want to read (2 in 5, or 38.4%). So whether you’re a teacher, librarian, or simply just interested in inspiring the children to read – make sure to share our Stoke 100 Reads lists and resources with the young people in your life.
How did we create the lists?
We received so many incredible votes for brilliant books from people across Stoke-on-Trent – 3,317 to be exact! It was hard to whittle them down to just 100 per list.
To take on the challenge, we worked with librarians from Stoke-on-Trent Libraries, our library specialists here at the National Literacy Trust, and our local expert volunteers from our network of Literacy Champions. Together, we looked at how many votes each book received, which books truly spoke to our city and readers, and which books will stand the test of time.
The collaboration didn’t stop there! The brilliant illustrator, Matt Buckingham, who designed the Stoke 100 Reads resources joined us in consulting lots of children and young people from three local schools. We asked for these young people’s opinions to ensure the resources excite and inspire children to explore them.
What are Book Detectives?
We asked the children and young people of Stoke-on-Trent to become Book Detectives. These are readers of any age who, with the assistance of family members and teachers, become experts in exploring books, all to choose stories which are interesting and enjoyable to read.
While the lists are now finalised, families can still take advantage of the brilliant Trainee Book Detective’s Notebook which offers fun and interactive guidance in choosing a book that excites its reader. Why not take the notebook with you on your next library visit?
About Stoke 100 Reads over the years
Stoke 100 Reads was first introduced back in 2016 by Stoke Speaks Out. It promoted a love of reading for pleasure amongst children and encouraged families to read together throughout Stoke-on-Trent. Since then, thousands of new children’s books have been published so we think it’s time to refresh, renew and republish a brand new Stoke 100 Reads list. But we can’t do it alone. Just as we did in 2016, we’re asking for your suggestions for what we should include in the list.
Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
