National Share-A-Story Month celebrates the power of stories and is promoted by Children’s Book Groups across the UK. This year the groups have been given sets of StoryWorld cards to inspire their young storytellers. “A very ingenious idea . . . I’ve seldom seen so many attractive starting points (and ending points, and signposts to suggest new paths) so well presented.” Philip Pullman.

The Federation of Children’s Book Groups is a national, voluntary organization which coordinaties and supports 27 Book Groups throughout England, Scotland and Wales.

“Our aim is to promote enjoyment and interest in children's books and reading, and to encourage the availability of a range of literature for all ages, from pre-school to teenage. The Federation liaises with schools, playgroups, publishers, libraries and other official bodies. We provide a meeting point for parents, professionals and everyone who shares our aim.”

The idea of a parents' organisation that would promote enthusiasm for and about children's books began in 1965 when Anne Wood set up the first Book Group. Anne later founded Ragdoll Productions known for its award-winning Teletubbies and In the Night Garden children’s programmes. By 1968 more groups were established and the Federation of Children's Book Groups was created, linking these groups across the British Isles. The Federation also organises, annually, The Red House Children's Book Award - The National Award based entirely on the votes of young readers.

What do local Children’s Book Groups do?

Each Group is different, but in most you will find some of these activities ;

• Meetings for adults to discuss books and children's reading.
• Visiting speakers such as authors, illustrators, book editors, publishers, librarians and educationalists.
• A Group newsletter with news of book and group activities.
• Events for children - storytelling, meet-an-author, competitions, expeditions, parties, picnics etc.
• Book exhibitions and informal sales.
• Sharing books with schools, playgroups, nurseries and hospitals.
• Organising larger events, such as book days, book weeks, book festivals, etc..
• Giving talks to any group or organisation that asks.
• Story reading during holidays at playschemes, libraries, playgrounds.
• Setting up Family Reading Groups
• Working for increased availability of a wide range of books in schools, libraries and the community generally, and opposing any cuts in such provision.