Little Read

Each year, our Little Read campaign gifts thousands of picture books across County Durham, including to every primary school and nursery setting, inviting children to read for pleasure and be part of a shared moment for the county. As well as events at the festival, you’ll find videos and resources which can be used at home or in school to engage with the story. We hope you find a moment to enjoy reading and sharing a story together!

Join in by sending us pictures inspired by this year’s Little Read using #DBFLittleRead on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Polonius the Pit Pony By Richard O'Neill

We’re thrilled that The Little Read 2022 will be the charming picture book, Polonius the Pit Pony by Richard O’Neill and illustrated by Feronia Parker-Thomas.

When Polonius the pit pony escapes from the coal mine he’s worked in all his life, he joins a family of Travellers. Although he enjoys the freedom and the fresh air that their lifestyle offers, he wishes he could give something to the family in return. When the chance arrives for him to do something to help,Polonius uses his skills to save the day.

We will be distributing 1,700 copies of Polonius the Pit Pony throughout County Durham, including one copy to every nursery and primary school in the County.

Watch two special videos with Richard O’Neill reading from and talking about the book below. You can also download a free resource pack, developed with Education Durham.

 

Events at Durham Book Festival

The Little Read 2021 Look Up!

In 2021 our Little Read was Look Up! by Nathan Bryon and Dapo Adeola.

Winner of the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2020, Look Up! is a heart-warming picture book about space and the wonder of the natural world. We distributed 2000 copies of this inspiring picture book throughout County Durham. You can still access all of our digital workshops and teachers’ resources on this page.

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