Hot-shot Ross likes a good read to relax
READY, Set, Read is the Guille-Alles Library’s call to action this year for its summer reading challenge.
The initiative challenges young islanders to read six books during the summer holidays.
A record number of more than 1,700 signed up last year.
The library's head of children and young people services Jodie Hearn said the sporting theme tied in well with the recent Island Games.
‘We hope to encourage more sports fans into reading,’ she said.
Guernsey FC legend Ross Allen spent yesterday morning at the library chatting to children about reading and encouraging them to sign up for the challenge.
He said reading played a big part in his life.
‘I really got into it after primary school. I find it to be such a good way to escape from life. It especially helps me with football because sometimes I just need a break,’ he said.
‘On GFC away trips, reading relaxes me and takes my mind off the sport and its stresses.’
Eight-year-old Harry Piercy was among children signing up with the help of the striker, who he knows through football.
‘I like reading football books. My favourite is the Marcus Rashford book,’ he said.
Harry normally reads every week and is taking on the challenge to keep on track throughout the school holidays.
His brother Max, 3, is also taking part.
‘I like story books and funny books,’ he said.
The library is also teaming up with local charity Bright Beginnings, which is providing reading volunteers to take part in the Next Chapter programme which gives children an opportunity to talk about the books they have read in various outreach settings.
