Youngsters from across Townsville and Magnetic Island will come together to celebrate a love a books as part of the annual national Children’s Book Week next week.

As the longest running children’s festival in the country, Book Week aims to recognise the importance of books and Australian authors and illustrators.

This year, CityLibraries Townsville librarians will be travel guides to complement the ‘One World, Many Stories’ theme from August 20-26.

CityLibraries children and youth services librarian Shan Boller said children would be encouraged to get out their passports, suitcases and ports and take a journey around the world of stories.

Of special focus would be the many fantastic books and stories shortlisted in this year’s Children’s Book of the Year awards, she said.

“Books and reading are a great way to open the world to young people,” Ms Boller said. “Childrens Book Week is a fantastic opportunity to foster a love of Australian literature in children and to highlight the importance of reading in their lives.”

More than 1200 local youngsters are expected to join in activities during the week at CityLibraries branches and schools.


CITYLIBRARIES ACTIVITIES DURING CHILDREN’S BOOK WEEK:

Aunty Peach and the Revolting Rhymes - Laugh till you cry when Aunty Peach brings the magic of Roald Dahl's wacky and humourous rhymes to life.
When >> Saturday, 20 August, 10-11am
Audience >> 6 and over
Venue >> CityLibraries Aitkenvale
Cost>> FREE. Bookings required. Book online at www.townsville.qld.gov.au/facilities/libraries or contact your local library.