The book, written by award-winning author and illustrator Nadia Shireen and published by Random House, is being delivered to schools throughout the Autumn term as part of BookTrust’s Time to Read campaign.
Families across the country will be following Norman the bear’s adventure at Bee School, as he tries to steal the bees’ honey in his best bee onesie in a fun story about inclusivity.
Time to Read originally launched in September 2016, encouraging parents and carers of primary school aged children to keep reading with their children - even once they’ve learned to read themselves.
BookTrust Chief Executive Diana Gerald said, ‘Finding the time to read together as a family can have dramatic effects on a child’s wellbeing and development. Children are more likely to read if they love books, and they’re more likely to love books if families have fun reading together anytime and anywhere.
‘We are delighted every primary school starter in England will have their own copy of Nadia Shireen’s brilliant book The Bumblebear to take home and treasure with their family as part of the Time to Read Campaign. It is a playful book, with an endearing tale about friendship and loyalty which we hope every child across the country can enjoy and learn from.’
The Bumblebear was selected for BookTrust by an independent panel of experts and practitioners, who work with Reception children. It was the unanimous favourite with the panel for its quality of storytelling, relatable school setting and its ability to be read aloud in a lively manner.
Nadia Shireen, author of The Bumblebear said, ‘I am so happy and honoured that BookTrust have selected The Bumblebear for their excellent Time to Read campaign. Booktrust is fantastic at turning kids into readers and, crucially, they reach those kids who can't access books so easily. I hope reading about Norman's adventures at Bee School raises a chuckle or two, but mainly I'm delighted that so many children will be forced to own one of my books – whether they like it or not!’
The book will be delivered inside a special Time to Read package to take home. Inside the pack is a message for parents and carers about the importance of shared reading.
