The Animal Agents have recruited new detectives to help their team of furry, scaly, slippery sleuths this summer. summer reading challenge in sefton

The agents are the stars of the Summer Reading Challenge, and have set the challenge to children across the UK to read any six books from their local library at a time when literacy levels typically drop.

The challenge is for all children aged 4-11 years of age, who can register to take part at any one of Sefton’s libraries.

The Animal Agents collection of books are comprised of 70 must-have reads suitable for children of all ages.

Sefton’s libraries will be bringing the theme to life throughout an action packed summer of activities, including visits from the Zooman, Sefton’s Park Rangers and much more.

The artwork for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge has been exclusively created by Tony Ross, the UK’s best-selling children’s illustrator (creator of the Little Princess books, illustrator of the Horrid Henry series by Francesca Simon, and of books by David Walliams and Claire Balding).

Cllr. John Joseph Kelly, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Safeguarding said:

“It cannot be overstated how important reading is to the development of our children, not only to develop their literacy and communications skills, but also for the confidence it gives them.

“As expected, the library service at Sefton Council has gone the extra mile to bring this year’s Summer Reading Challenge to life in our libraries and by visiting all of our primary schools to get children involved at a time when literacy levels can drop off.

“I encourage everyone with children to visit their nearest library and sign up for this fantastic, free initiative”

Lesley Davies, Development Manager at Sefton Library Service said:

“Each year the Summer Reading Challenge goes from strength to strength in Sefton as we enjoy some of the highest completion rates in the North West. This is a real testament to the abilities of our children, and of course the hard work of our staff, local schools and families.

“This year’s challenge is set to be better than ever, with a host of animal themed activities for children to enjoy in our libraries. There really has not been a better time for children to come the library, enjoy a good read and have fun”



Children can register to take part at their local library, where they lend any of the 70 titles. They can also download them to a mobile device using the Sefton libraries e-lending service.