Children's laureate to read to school children at Stroud Library

The author of The Gruffalo will read to 60 children in years one and two from Stroud Valley Community School. encouraging them to play the parts of the characters in her stories.

She said: "I've always been a big fan of libraries.

"They are where children discover their taste in books and become lifelong readers.

"I am planning to visit as many as I can during my two years as children's laureate, to draw attention to all the exciting things that can and do go on in them.

"My hope is that these visits will result in children who are not already members signing up with their local library.

The event takes place at the culmination of Children’s Book Week, which takes place from October 3-9 and Stroud Library is known for issuing more children’s books than any other library in Gloucestershire.

Debbie Sleep, headteacher of Stroud Valley Community School, said: "We are delighted to have been invited to join Julia Donaldson for storytelling at Stroud Library.

"The children are so excited to meet an author that they all know through reading The Gruffalo and other fab stories.

"It is great to see Stroud Library being used, where many of our children are members, for such a special occasion."

Julia will also visit Stroud Bookshop to sign copies of her book from 3.30pm on Monday.

"I am keen to support independent bookshops and am delighted to be fitting in a signing on the day," added Julia, who will also appear at the Cheltenham Literature Festival on Saturday, October 8 where she will perform songs from her new book The Gruffalo's Child and Other Songs.