Book Factor 2016 – Simply Books

23 May 2016

Simply Books, Bramhall, are leading a reading revolution in Stockport schools with innovative book award – The Book Factor 2016

Excitement is reaching fever pitch amongst children in 10 Stockport schools as they approach the final stages of The Book Factor 2016 – their very own book award which will culminate in an award ceremony at Stockport Plaza on 24^th May. Inspired by the TV talent show format, The Book Factor includes a ‘boot camp’, voting at the polls, and a BAFTA-style award ceremony designed to generate an excitement around, and lasting passion for, books and reading.

The Book Factor was devised by Sue Steel, co-owner of Simply Books, an independent bookshop in Bramhall, as an inventive, inclusive and current way to give children an exciting and memorable learning experience. It gives children the chance to read and vote for their favourite books of the year and inspires a true passion for reading for pleasure. The Book Factor has grown beyond all expectations. Now in its 4^th year, 10 schools and a total of 2,300 children are taking part across the two age groups.

“The thing that makes The Book Factor unique, isn’t just the buzz about the books. It’s the way everyone works together from the children and staff in schools to the publishers and their authors and illustrators. It’s a shared experience that the children and families will never forget”. – Sue Steel, Simply Books

Planning began back in January at Simply Books with Sue and three teachers from the schools meeting up for ‘boot camp’ to come up with the shortlist for each of the 2 age categories. Compiled from publisher submissions and in depth personal knowledge, the books were selected not only for their general excellence and appeal to readers but also for their potential to inspire 9 weeks of creative cross-curricular teaching. Teachers from participating schools have shared ideas on how to use the books in school to deliver a creative and exciting curriculum not just in English but across science, maths, history … every aspect of the curriculum.

“Book Factor has helped change the culture of reading at Cheadle Heath Primary School. It has been central in instilling, and developing, a love of books and a passion for reading amongst our pupils. Reading levels have improved which, in turn, has helped the children achieve more across the whole curriculum.” – Christine Meekley Head Teacher, Cheadle Heath Primary

“The Book Factor is about so much more than books, it has become a community event bringing schools together in submerging children in the wonderful world of literacy.” – Jennie Williams Deputy Head Teacher, Greave Primary School

“The Book Factor is a fabulous opportunity for pupil engagement in both books and reading. Children love exploring all the short listed books and have produced some amazing writing in response. The opportunity to perform at Stockport Plaza adds another dimension to this whole experience. We really appreciate this innovative opportunity created by Simply Books.” Sue Challinor Head Teacher, Queensgate Primary School

The finalists were revealed to the children on World Book Day in March. Then 9 weeks of teaching and learning, practising performances and campaigning began. Older children form parties to campaign on behalf of their favourite books, with speeches, rosettes and manifestos – covering British Values and democracy on the curriculum.

The children went to the polls (along with the rest of the country!) on Thursday 5^th May, to cast their secret vote at polling stations in each of the schools, as well as at Simply Books itself.

On Tuesday 24^th May 6 months of planning and teaching, reading and campaigning will culminate in a glittering award ceremony at The Stockport Plaza when the children will perform shows inspired by their favourite books and the winners of The Book Factor 2016 will be announced in front of a capacity audience of 1,800 children, teachers, parents and publishers.