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Council works with local author to share more than 400 free books

Council News
13:44, Thursday, 7th May 2020

North Lincolnshire Council has supported local children’s writer Addy Farmer to share more than 400 free copies of her book ‘A Place Called Home’ to entertain families during the coronavirus pandemic.

Addy, who is based in Crowle, was inspired by the community spirit across North Lincolnshire and decided to contribute her own act of kindness.

After recording a video of herself reading the adventure story, she asked if any families in Crowle would enjoy a free copy of the book, via a local Facebook page. The response was overwhelming, and soon, other local businesses, including Acorns Child Minding, offered their help to deliver copies.

Addy, who is also chair of the North Lincolnshire Children’s Literacy Trust, explained:

“Being a children’s writer is not just about the writing; it’s also about the readers. Part of my work is about being with and inspiring children to enjoy reading. I love visiting schools and working with families to encourage creativity and imagination; it’s about being with people.

“As we follow the government guidance to stay at home, I had to adjust and think how I could help in different ways. For all of us and especially for children, reading and stories can be an incredible comfort and source of creativity.

“I’ve felt inspired and encouraged by the wonderful sense of community here in Crowle”.

The council has supported the effort by creating activity packs to accompany the story which children’s centres have delivered to families. Other copies of the books have been also gifted to schools to create their own home learning packs using the activity resources provided.

The books and activity packs have been enthusiastically received by families.

Sam Croxhall, Isle of Axholme Children Centre Cluster Manager, said:

“I would just like to say a huge thank you to your whole team for the amazing activity packs you have supplied us, they have already been welcomed by many families in North Lincolnshire. We’ve had some lovely comments from families”.

Find out more about the book and access resources at North Lincolnshire Council’s Adult Education and Community Learning website.

Watch Addy reading A Placed Called Home at her YouTube channel. Local theatre company Rhubarb Theatre have also recorded a special performance of the book, which you can watch at the Arlington Arts YouTube channel.