The Reading Agency and public libraries are working to change this with the Summer Reading Challenge – a FREE, UK-wide programme. Last year, over 575,000 children took part with nearly 12 million books being read. Sing from the rooftops! We’re so thrilled that the theme for the Summer Reading Challenge 2026 will be music.
Our exciting partnership with Universal Music Group UK will open doors for children to explore the creative power of reading and music. The link between music and storytelling runs deep. Think rhythm, self-expression and creativity. Children will have the opportunity to hear from inspiring musicians at the top of their game, championing the joy of reading. This year’s Challenge will harness the universal appeal of music to inspire the next generation of readers in the UK.
The official Read to the Beat Collection is available for purchase via library suppliers or on Bookshop.org. The Collection includes books about musicians, characters discovering music, sound science, cultural traditions, rhythm, storytelling through sound, breaking down barriers to music, creative expression and following your dreams.
Please note these titles have been broadly divided into age categories for the Summer Reading Challenge Book Collection but you can find more specific age ratings, including any relevant content warnings, on publisher websites to ensure a title is suitable for your child.
