Thursday 4 March is World Book Day 2021. World Book Day is a celebration of authors, illustrators, books and it’s a celebration of reading for pleasure. 2021 marks the 24th World Book Day and to help celebrate, Charlton Athletic players Ryan Iniss and Alex Gilbey showed their support by sharing the books they read, why they read and the importance of reading.
Ryan Inniss said:
“I think reading is important, whether it’s to extend your vocabulary or express your imagination within.”
Alex Gilbey said:
“I am currently reading Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, I really enjoy this because it helps me relax in the evening after training so I can switch off.”
National Literacy Trust research has found that children who have their own books are nearly three times more likely to enjoy reading.
The partnership will help support children whose access to physical books has been made difficult due to school and public library closures during the national lockdown.
Every year Charlton Athletic Community Trust (CACT) is involved with schools and their community to celebrate books and reading and encourage parents and children of all ages to share stories.
Anthony Quarm, CACT’s Premier League Programme Officer, said:
“This year’s World Book Day will be a lot different due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but one ever-present factor will be the importance of reading and learning.
“The objective for us remains to present positive and powerful messages about books and reading to young people in order to develop a love of reading.”
Charlton Athletic have been delivering books to schools in Greenwich and Bexley as part of the partnership between the Premier League and National Literacy Trust. CACT will have donated over 400 books to schools and children by the end of the month.
CACT is also launching a writing competition for school pupils to express themselves and inspire each other to read and share stories.
Click here to find out more about the Premier League Primary Stars programme.