Books are magical adventures.
While reading is a fundamental skill, Duncan's Volume One Bookstore is putting the 'fun' into their free summer reading program as it celebrates its fourth year.
"It's great to see the excitement in the kids' eyes when they come and pick up their reading treasure map and talk about what books they want to read," said Volume One's Melanie Watson. "We'll also be putting up suggestions for each reading category on our website to help give inspiration, or parents or kids can ask one of our booksellers for suggestions."
The club, which started July 5, runs until the end of August. It was the brainchild of Volume One's former manager who wanted to offer a program to inspire kids to read over the summer. While geared towards those eight through 12, all ages are invited to stop by the store to pick up their reading treasure map to colour, which was designed by local artist Vivi de Graff, before discovering the gems that await them in the pages of the books of their choice.
Readers will be required to read one book in each of four categories: friends, adventure, silly, and magic. Once a book is read, kids will receive a special sticker, as well as a button, ribbon and surprise. Once all four categories are complete they are to bring their map back to the store to reap their rewards. There will also be fun activities, treats and the chance to win an in-store gift certificate. Submitted treasure maps will be displayed inside the store.
Participants can read their books anywhere, and friends or siblings can read the same book. If you're a better listener, story time counts too.
Have no fear if you missed the launch event on July 5, as kids can pick up their map anytime throughout the summer, and go at their own pace. It is also open to all who are young at heart.
"It's great knowing that a part of children's summer days will be spent in the pages of some good books," said Watson. "Hopefully by reading different categories of books they will discovered new types of stories, and authors that they enjoy."
