The Library Book by Gabby Dawnay. Illus. by Ian Morris

Zach isn't convinced that books are for him - they're too long, they're boring and he would rather watch TV. But thanks to his friend Ro's stubborn efforts, Zach falls for books hook, line and sinker, and loses himself in a world of dinosaurs, princesses, pirates, football and rocket ships - anything and everything the library has to offer.

Using Seuss-like rhyme and vibrant, cartoon-esque illustrations that will appeal to the intended audience, Zach's friend Ro tries to convince him of the value of reading through offering him a diversity of books, both fiction and non fiction. But Zach remains resistant until...

We all know those who are reluctant to read, each having their own reason not to which is often masking their lack of belief in themselves because they didn't master the skill as readily as others when they were younger. So this is another for the armoury that might break through the barriers, particularly if students are sent on a treasure hunt to discover an example of all the genres, plots and subjects that Ro uses to tempt Zach.

Research has shown that one of the most influential factors in a young child learning to read is if they perceive it to be valued by the significant adults in their lives, but sadly, research has also shown that by Year 6, children perceive it as an adult-imposed task designed to achieve an outcome like a better grade, so perhaps the secret lies in seeing that it is something valued by peers and we need to seek out ways to show this. Maybe books like this and the Losing the Plot series will be the key.

Themes: Libraries, Books and reading.

Barbara Braxton