There are currently around 100 Chatterbooks children's reading groups in Scotland, including one on the island of Orkney. Louise Graham who runs the Chatterbooks reading group at the library tells us about her year.

Excellent training

After the excellent training in Dundee last summer I began a Chatterbooks group in October. I have 10 kids in the group they are all either eight or nine and there are happily five girls and five boys, but that is just by accident.

We have had some super sessions - Roald Dahl being their favourite. I have enjoyed discovering new authors with them. We had a trip out to our local bookshop and we've also had a behind the scenes (every nook and cranny) tour of the library and archive building.

Getting help from older pupils

It's been a challenge and I have to do most of the preparations and tidying up in my own time but having said that it's hugely worthwhile. I also have the help of some 5th year pupils who are volunteering via the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. They are a lovely addition to the group and the kids love having cool big kids to help out.

I will run the group until Easter and then we will have a break over the summer - while we do the Summer Reading Challenge - then back again in October.

Here we are talking about and making our favourite Roald Dahl characters.

Get involved

If you're interested in setting up a Chatterbooks reading club for children in your school or library find out more about Chatterbooks and the Chatterpacks (themed activity packs) we provide to support people running children's reading groups.

To purchase materials to help you run Chatterbooks reading groups and incentives for Chatterbooks children, visit our online shop. Welcome packs to help you set up and run your Chatterbooks / Clonclyfrau reading group are available in Welsh too.