As the cost of books rise across the UK, Hay Festival has donated 50 of the most treasured books to four primary schools in Herefordshire.
‘50 Books to Fall in Love With’ is a collection of books curated by Hay Festival’s learning and engagement team suitable for children from early years up to KS2.
The list spotlights some of the most-loved children’s authors that have features in Hay Festival events over the years including Julia Donaldson, Michael Rosen, Jacqueline Wilson, Michael Morpurgo, Big Manny, Jeff Kinney and Laura Dockrill.
Hay Festival’s KS1 Programme for Schools will return this Winter Weekend with the full programme to be announced Monday 21 September.
The books will be delivered in-person by Hay Festival CEO Julie Finch to pupils at St Thomas Cantilupe CE Primary School, Riverside Primary School, Marlbrook Primary School and Leominster Primary School. Over the last three years, these schools have worked closely with Hay Festival, both at the Festival and in their schools, taking part in outreach projects such as the creative residency ‘Make Hay’ and a ‘family day’ at Hay Festival Hay-on-Wye.
Hay Festival CEO, Julie Finch said:
“As a new school year begins, we are thrilled to bring some of the most cherished titles to young people. As one of the world’s biggest book festivals, we know first-hand how transformational books can be to young people in sparking inspiration and new possibilities. Books are not a luxury and should be accessible to everyone.”
The donations were supported by funding from Arts Council England and add to Hay Festival’s extensive learning and engagement programmes that offer free access to young people through schools, universities and youth groups.