Young bookworm Poppy Robinson is celebrating after reading an incredible 200+ library books in just 10 weeks.
The six-year-old scooped the prize for borrowing and reading 203 books – the most books borrowed from Sandwell Council’s libraries between April and June.
Poppy and her brother Oscar, who is three, are regular visitors to Great Barr Library in Birmingham Road. Oscar came second in the competition – borrowing 188 books.
This weekend Poppy and Oscar will celebrate with a free magic party with local entertainer and library favourite Ron Popple. Ron, who regularly performs at libraries and children’s parties, donated the prize as a treat for the child who read the most books.
Poppy and Oscar’s mum, Sophie Robbins Robinson, said: “I first took Poppy to the library when she was a few weeks old. We have always read to her and looked at books together.
“We are so lucky to have such amazing local library facilities. Now Poppy can read by herself her enthusiasm for books has just soared, she reads every day and is always on the lookout for her next good read.
“The speed with which she has learnt to read has taken us by surprise, it’s fabulous and we are so proud of her. We are thrilled to have won the party,” Sophie added.
Poppy’s favourite books are Esme The Ice Cream Fairy by Daisy Meadows, her favourite author, and Kitchen Disco by Clare Foges.
Sandwell Council’s cabinet member responsible for libraries Councillor Bob Lloyd said: “I’m thrilled that Poppy and her brother love books so much and I hope they enjoy the party. We’re doing everything we can in Sandwell to help children enjoy reading from a young age.
“Sandwell has 19 libraries, a mobile library and five express libraries based in children’s centres. It’s completely free to sign up as a library member and you can use any library across Sandwell – I’d urge all parents to get their child a library card and unlock the joy of books and reading.”
Poppy and Oscar are also taking part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge and visiting Sandwell libraries to take part in our funded holiday activities.
The Summer Reading Challenge is free to join and available in all of 19 libraries and the mobile library as well. The theme this year is Space Chase to tie in with the 50th anniversary of the moon landings. When children sign up they receive a Space Chase card which tells the story about the Rocket Family who are trying to stop aliens from stealing library books.
Children need to read six books to complete the challenge, collecting smelly stickers for every two books that they read. When they complete the challenge they receive a personalised certificate, a medal and a space glider. The challenge runs until the end of the school holidays.
