Join the Challenge!

Every year, we encourage children and schools from across the region to read the same book and to join us in events to explore and talk about it.

For this year’s Big Read, Litfest invites readers young and old to share a story of the Blitz: When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle.

Fill out the form to pledge to read the book and take up the challenge. By doing so, you will automatically be entered for a prize draw on 30 April, when Phil will pick three names out of a hat, who will win three paperback books of their choice!

‘For me, the single most important reason for reading is escape. It’s a moment of pure release, reminiscent of playtime at school: that moment when you’re six or seven and are sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for the bell to ring. As when you’re playing you can go on any imaginative journey you want’ — Phil Earle

Below, you can also find some fun downloadable resources, including a certificate of completion for anyone who manages to complete the challenge. Good luck!

Sign up here:

THE LITFEST BIG READ CHALLENGE — Terms and Conditions

How to enter

  1. To enter for the Big Litfest Read Challenge participants must register online.

The Litfest Big Read Challenge prize draw

  1. At the end of the Litfest Big Read and no later than 30 April everyone who registered will be entered into a prize draw.

Prizes

  1. There will be 3 prizes each of 3 paperback books (with a cash value of approximately £30).

Winners

  1. Winners in each category will be chosen at random not later than 30 April 2025.
  2. The winners will be notified by email.

Registration Open Date, Close Date

  1. Registration will be open from 00:01 GMT, 27 Jan 2025 until 23:59 GMT, 29 April 2025.

Resources for Teachers and Helpers — Click to Download

Certificate of Completion
Make Your Own Comic Strip
Book Review