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Read Manchester

SMIB Manchester

Read Manchester is a partnership between the National Literacy Trust and Manchester City Council to raise literacy levels and change the life stories of children, young people and adults across the city.

Working with schools and communities, local businesses and partner organisations, we share our love of stories and books with families to support them to develop the literacy skills needed to succeed in life. Read our newsletter to find out more about our current projects.

Getting ready to start primary school

Children who are starting primary school in Manchester in September will each receive a copy of Shane Hegarty and Ben Mantle's brilliant book, The One and Only You. Chatting and reading with your child helps to prepare them for the transition from nursery to Reception. We put together our top tips for sharing stories together, downloadable in 10 languages.

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Transition

Secondary school transition read

For the second year running, every child in Manchester who is starting high school in September will receive a copy of Quiet Storm by local author and Read Manchester Literacy Champion, Kimberly Whittam. There will be lots of supporting activities and events over the summer holidays.

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Kimberly Chorlton 1

See Myself in Books

Help promote wider diversity in children's literature and increase access to a diverse range of books to inspire reading for pleasure, with these ethnically diverse and neurodiverse booklists and teaching resources.

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Child looking at books in a library

Summer Reading Challenge

Read to the Beat!

This year’s 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.

2026 Launch Dates
Scotland: Saturday 20 June
England and Wales: Saturday 4 July

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summer reading challenge

Take 10 to Read

Learn about our campaign to Take 10 minutes to read for your wellbeing on #WorldMentalHealthDay.

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Take 10 Read Manchester team at Royal Manchester Childrens Hospital 8 Oct 24

How to get involved...

  • There are lots of things Manchester families can do to boost their children's literacy from home.
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  • We have lots of resources and support for schools, helping children reach the recommended literacy level for each stage of their education.
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  • Read Manchester counts on the support of local businesses to help improve literacy levels in the city.
    Learn more

Key partners