This year, with the disruption caused by COVID-19 and the impact of social distancing on schools and public libraries, the all-new digital Summer Reading Challenge is launching digitally in Middlesbrough on Saturday until mid-September.
The website is free to access and a place for children to rate and review their books and work towards their reading goal which they can set themselves.
It will also feature video content, games, quizzes and digital and downloadable activities to incentivise and encourage children and their families to take part in the Challenge at home. www.sillysquad.co.uk or www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
Kids with limited access to books can still use Middlesbrough Libraries through the Borrow Box app where they can download eBooks and eAudiobooks for free.
Michelle Mockler from Middlesbrough Libraries said: "We have lots of new children's titles available as well as a Digital SuperSix Kids challenge where 6 specially chosen new titles will be showcased via weekly story times with the face of Middlesbrough Libraries online - Tammy and her dog Monty!
"Tammy and Monty have entertained the children of Middlesbrough and read stories every week online in lockdown, and have fans and viewers as far flung as Australia and New Zealand!
Tammy Andrews and her dog Monty.
"We understand families are facing unprecedented times and hope the scheme will come in useful over the summer holidays to keep kids occupied and to enable them to carry on reading."
Any queries about how to join online, access Borrowbox or anything else can be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
