On A Mission To Revolutionise Reading for Pleasure Among Children

Acclaimed author and storyteller Chip Colquhoun and ‘Winnie the Witch’ illustrator Korky Paul are on a mission to revolutionise reading for pleasure among children.

Next month sees the launch of their book “All The Better To Read You With”, published by Epic Tales and commissioned by the Department for Education’s English Hub.

The book will be officially launched at Bett UK, the largest Ed Tech event in the world, on 24th January 2024 at the Excel in London. This groundbreaking book continues Chip’s mission to revolutionise Reading for Pleasure among children both in the classroom and among home educators.

Reading for Pleasure has long been recognized as a critical determinant of children’s social mobility and academic attainment. Research shows that recreational reading is the most significant factor contributing to academic achievement and social mobility, surpassing socio-economic background. However, studies have found that fewer children today enjoy reading compared to before 2016.

“All The Better to Read You With” addresses this challenge by providing a unique solution. Written by Chip Colquhoun, a professional storyteller with two decades of experience, and Rebekah Owen, a distinguished educator, the book offers a collection of enthralling short stories that can be read aloud to learners. Educators receive expert guidance on how to ‘read like a storyteller’ and are provided with tried-and-proven lesson plans that increase children’s enthusiasm for reading.

Chip Colquhoun, the author, explains, “These lessons focus on the joy of the shared experience, the fun of the words, the connections between books, and the relevance to the children listening. It’s not just about comprehension; it’s about creating a meaningful and enjoyable reading experience.”

The book has garnered endorsements from esteemed professionals in the education field. Ros Wilson, Founder of Talk:Write, says, “If you seek to boost your skills as a storyteller, then this is the book for you. If you would welcome a complete program that will enhance your teaching, enrich your pupils’ lives with a passion for reading, and also boost your skills as a storyteller, then this is definitely the book for you!”

Ian Whybrow, acclaimed author of the bestselling ‘Harry and the Dinosaurs’ series, praises the book, stating, “At last! A fresh, accessible guide to storytelling as an encouragement to young people to read for the joy of it.”

“All The Better to Read You With” aims to inspire children’s love for reading and empower teachers with effective strategies to foster a reading culture in their classrooms. By equipping educators with the tools to engage children in meaningful conversations and create captivating reading experiences, the book promises to have a transformative impact on children’s reading habits.

For more information about “All The Better to Read You With” and Epic Tales, please visit their website at https://www.epictales.co.uk.

To pre-order the book, visit https://www.epictales.co.uk/product/all-the-better-to-read-you-with-stories-lessons-to-inspire-reading-for-pleasure

About Epic Tales:

Epic Tales is a renowned storytelling initiative run by Immersive Dome Experiences Ltd. The organisation aims to empower children and educators through engaging and inspiring storytelling experiences. Epic Tales’ publications and author training programs emphasise the joy and importance of reading for pleasure.