Birmingham children can pick up a free book today as The Works' Find Your Story book bus rolls into the city, part of a national drive to combat the UK's reading crisis. The bus will be stationed at Kitts Green Children's Centre, 45 Ridpool Road, B33 9RB, from 10:00am to 4:00pm on August 11, offering free books and interactive reading sessions for youngsters and their families.
Why the visit matters
The initiative supports the National Year of Reading 2026 and comes in response to alarming survey findings. The Works' research reveals that one in three families now have fewer than 10 books at home, with children increasingly swapping paper pages for screens. The company has pledged to raise £150,000, donate 250,000 books, and boost literacy skills in disadvantaged communities across the UK.
Every child who attends the bus will receive a free book, and families can explore a range of reading activities together. Jim Smith, creator of the popular My Big Fat, Smelly Poo book series, will also be leading free workshops on site.
Reading habits under the spotlight
The survey paints a concerning picture of young readers' habits. Nearly 48 per cent of children say they only read because school requires it, while 49 per cent read for pleasure. Seventy-eight per cent of parents worry that future generations could miss out on the joy of reading, and 58 per cent believe screens harm their child's ability to focus. Over half of children (51 per cent) report that reading feels more challenging after using screens.
Gavin Peck, CEO of The Works, said: "We're very excited to be bringing the Find Your Story Bus to Birmingham. Books unlock imagination, confidence and creativity but too many children simply don't have access to them."
A community-focused approach
Peck added: "While screens can be a helpful tool for many families to encourage reading, our Find Your Story Book Bus is about bringing books directly into communities, giving every child a free book, and helping families rediscover the joy of reading together. Through our READ pledge and support of the National Year of Reading, we're committed to inspiring a lifelong love of reading and ensuring more children across the UK can find their story."
The Book Bus is visiting nine locations nationwide, with Birmingham being a key stop. Parents and guardians are encouraged to head to Kitts Green Children's Centre today to take advantage of the free books and activities, helping to turn the tide on the reading crisis one child at a time.
