If I’m honest, I was worried that WBD 2021 might not be able to happen. Covid and repeated lockdowns had changed everything and rather than visiting schools I was busy creating virtual options to keep the book buzz alive.
Well I need not have worried! Schools and youth groups adapted, evolved and completely embraced the virtual visits. Over the course of the five-week World Book Day half-term I spent over 33 hours online delivering virtual sessions with thousands of children and young people across the UK. The book buzz was strong and the stories flowed. From the Scouts and Cubs in Fife to the school children in Barnoldswick, the Brownies in Sussex to the pupils in Blackpool and all stops in between, I had an amazing time. You were all story superstars! Huge thanks to the teachers and leaders that set up the sessions.
I am currently taking bookings for in-person visits for June onwards and there are dates being snapped up; green shoots of recovery! The ‘virtuals’ work brilliantly and are here to stay. They will remain a great option to spread the love of reading and writing. In the face of real adversity, a positive has been discovered! Always believe that anything is possible – never have those words been more true.
