Cumbrian secondary school pupils are set to name their favourite author this week when the "Spellbinding" book award reaches its conclusion. Cumbria County Council’s Library Service for Schools will announce the winner of their third annual Spellbinding award at a ceremony at Newton Rigg Campus on June 23rd.
The event will be hosted by Alec Williams, an established freelance children’s storyteller, and will be the culmination of a competition that has involved 31 schools across the county.
Nominations for best book were collected from pupils aged between 11 and 14 and a longlist of ten titles was drawn up which the young people were encouraged to read and review in their school reading groups. From their preferences a shortlist of three has been produced.
About 70 pupils, accompanied by librarians and teachers, will be welcomed for the final voting. Pupils will vote on computers and the announcement of the winner will be made in the main conference room.
Councillor Roger Bingham, spokesman for the library service says:
"We are delighted that the Spellbinding award continues to go from strength to strength. It is wonderful to see so many young people enthusiastic about reading and to see so many schools taking part."
Ann Singleton, Library Services for Schools Manager said:
"This years event will be just as exciting and vibrant as last years. The award gives young people the opportunity and confidence to express their own views and improve their speaking skills, as well as generating excitement about books".