Children’s poet Simon Mole becomes Big Read patron

Celebrated children’s poet and author Simon Mole has been appointed as the second patron of Maidenhead’s Big Read festival.

Organised by volunteers, over the past seven years the annual Maidenhead’s Big Read festival engages authors, illustrators and story tellers and related activities in celebration of World Book Day.

It is held at various venues in Maidenhead, and it aims to engage and unite local school children with reading, with a particular focus on those children who are currently missing out on all that a love of books can provide.

Simon, who is from Maidenhead, joins the festival’s current patron, Olympian Dame Katherine Grainger.

Simon will be an ambassador for Maidenhead’s Big Read, and one of his first responsibilities will be to judge a competition in which children make this year’s festival bookmarks.

An acclaimed children’s writer, performer and National Poetry Day ambassador, Simon has more than 10 years of experience using poetry with children and families.

Former poet in residence for the National Literacy Trust, he works in schools and libraries across the country and overseas.

The videos on his YouTube channel are used by hundreds of thousands of children and teachers across the world each year.

His book, A First Book of Dinosaurs, was followed by the recent publication of A First Book of Bugs.

The author said: ”I’m so excited to take on this [ambassador] role – I’m an author who loves getting out there in the world to bring books to life with performances and workshops. To have a chance to do this in my local community is even more special.

“As a local parent, I’ve enjoyed bringing my own kids to the festival many times, and as patron I’m hoping to help raise awareness of all the great events that the team put on.”

Stephan Stephan, chair of Maidenhead’s Big Read, said:

“Simon has been involved in Maidenhead’s Big Read festival for many years, leading schools events and performing at our families weekend at Maidenhead Library.

“We’re very excited to welcome him as a patron.

“Simon’s attitude towards reading aligns perfectly with our aim to support local schools and families in encouraging broader reading habits among Reception to Year 7 students.

“[We hope to foster] a passion for reading, especially among those who may be hesitant or reluctant to read.”

Maidenhead’s Big Read takes place from March 2-13 next year.