Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of one of the country’s best loved children’s authors will be the theme of this year’s annual summer reading challenge.

The annual summer reading challenge is now in its 18^th year and launches this Saturday in libraries across the borough. 

This year’s theme is ‘The Big Friendly Read’ which is all about celebrating the 100^th anniversary of the birth of Roald Dahl, author of many international best-selling children’s classics

As part of the challenge children will be encouraged to read any six library books over the school holidays such as Matilda, James and the Giant Peach and the BFG, all of which are available in multiple copies to loan from any Dudley borough library.

Children who read six books will receive a poster, stickers, wristbands, a medal certificate, free swim pass at a Dudley Council-run leisure centre and will be entered into a big prize draw to win some top prizes. Councillor Rachel Harris, cabinet member for health and well being, said:

“We’ve been running the reading challenge in borough libraries for many years and thousands of children take part, we hope this year is no exception.

“This is a wonderful theme that encourages children to read some of the greatest children’s books by such a renowned author and is a fantastic way to encourage more children to develop a love of reading.”

Children need to be members to take part in the challenge but can join up for free at their local library. Libraries will also be running a special mini challenge for children aged four and under and a teen challenge for older children.

Born in Wales, to Norwegian parents, Roald Dahl is one oft th most successful childrens authors ever with his books having sold over 200 million copies worldwide.