What we do

BookTrust is the UK's largest children's reading charity and our mission is to get children from low-income and vulnerable family backgrounds reading regularly and by choice.

Our focus is on helping children in the key developmental years from birth to the first years of primary school.

We do this because of the strong evidence base which shows that reading with children from the earliest age and establishing a regular reading habit impacts on a wide range of outcomes both in the short term and later in life.

Our programmes are designed with books and activities that will support changes in reading behaviours in the families who could benefit the most.

We have an extensive reach, working through thousands of local partners to support children in every community in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Our programmes, campaigns and awards

Programmes

Our projects are designed to help families enjoy reading together.

Research and impact

Our research helps us understand what works to get families reading and why it’s so important.

Children's Laureate

Award-winning author and screenwriter Frank Cottrell-Boyce is the Waterstones Children's Laureate for 2024-26: a role that is normally awarded once every two years to an eminent writer or illustrator of children's books to celebrate their outstanding achievement.

BookTrust Cymru

Mae ein gwaith yn cefnogi pob teulu yng Nghymru o flwyddyn gyntaf bywyd eu plentyn hyd at ddiwedd eu blwyddyn Derbyn yn yr ysgol, gan ddechrau drwy roi anrheg o ddau lyfr BookTrust yn y pecyn Dechrau Da Babi.

BookTrust Northern Ireland

Through our reader development programmes and work as an arts organisation, BookTrust in Northern Ireland makes a positive impact on children, families and local communities.

For Families

Tools, resources, and useful blogs for families and children to enjoy on their reading journey.

Books and reading

Looking for brilliant books to enjoy?

Our Books and Reading area includes tips on sharing stories, themed booklists, recommendations of our favourite new books, our annual Great Books Guide, our BookTrust HomeTime site packed with fun things to do, and more...

Take a look

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Looking for something fun as a family?

Visit HomeTime

Enjoy storytime with our free online books and videos, play games, win prizes, test your knowledge in our book-themed quizzes, or even learn how to draw some of your favourite characters.

Bookmark: books and disability

Information on disability and children's books

Find advice and book recommendations for families, teachers, librarians, authors and publishers.

Reading tips and advice

Useful reading ideas for both families and schools

Discover how to read as a family, set up a great bedtime routine and encourage reading in your school.