This week, children across the country will be encouraged to dress up as their favourite characters from a book, join in a read-along and talk about fictional characters who have inspired them for World Book Day.

Sheffield children’s author, Helen Hunt, explains why the annual event is important and how Sheffield inspired her to write an adventure book.

“It is a day to focus on the importance of reading,” she says. “It helps children to feel encouraged to pick up a book and feel excited about reading and sharing their favourite books with their friends.

“It is vital for children and young adults to keep enjoying books to maintain improving their knowledge, memory, vocabulary and focus. Reading also helps with anxiety while at the same time enhancing their imagination and creativity skills. Reading also helps communication and stimulates the brain.”

Helen, who has lived in Sheffield all her life, explained the city inspired to write her debut book. “Steelosaurus” is a heart-warming tale about a curious dinosaur that is new to the city and who wants to know more about where he lives. He meets two children who gladly show him around Sheffield in an adventure about heritage and friendship.

The book is currently being sold in over 30 book stores around the city and has sold over 1,500 copies.

“Sheffield has so many famous landmarks that the people of Sheffield are so proud of, so writing a book comes naturally,” she says. “It was great to see a little boy from last year’s World Book Day dressed up as Steelosaurus.” 

This Thursday (March 6) the organisation behind World Book Day are encouraging schools to find different ways of helping students engage with books.

World Book Day was first celebrated on April 23 1995, in the UK, and was introduced to help children from disadvantaged backgrounds to form a lifelong love of reading. The day is now celebrated in over 100 countries and is meant for children to associate reading with fun and positivity.

According to the National Literary Trust only one in five (18.6%) children age five to eight do not have a book of their own at home.

A survey in 2021 revealed 54.7% of children between the ages of 8 and 11 said that they read more books as a result of taking part in World Book Day.

According to the “National Library of Health” in the US, research shows reading regularly has health benefits and can improve sleep, lowering stress levels, improve cognitive function, mental well-being and longevity in life.

Helen, from Oughtibridge, explained her own love affair with books after she became captivated by Roald Dahl, and illustrator, Quentin Blake, who’s stories enhanced her imagination. 

Last year, on World Book Day, Helen was invited to read her book to a class at the Oughtibridge Primary School.

“Although this was out of my comfort zone, it was nice to see so many children engaging and enjoying the book.”