Each year, the BIG Summer Read, run by Public Libraries Victoria, encourages young Victorians to keep reading over the school holidays.
With thousands of children participating across Victoria, the program aims to prevent a drop in literacy levels over summer while fostering a love of reading.
Elodie, who entered the 6-12 years category, selected 10 of her favourite books to read aloud and review.
Among her top picks were:
• Mr Huff by Anna Walker – “This was my favourite book because it had up and down feelings.”
• Zog and the Flying Doctors by Julia Donaldson – “I like how all the little problems in the story got solved.”
• Magic Beach by Alison Lester – “This reminds me of the place we go every year for our family holiday, the illustrations are very beautiful.”
• Owl Babies by Martin Waddell – “I have loved this book for a very long time, my mum used to read it to me every night.”
The competition’s statewide prizes included book packs tailored for different age groups, with Elodie receiving a bundle of 10 books donated by James Bennett, Allen & Unwin, Affirm Press and Hardie Grant.
Elodie was presented with her prize at Shepparton Library by Goulburn Valley Libraries chief executive Felicity Macchion and Children’s & Youth Services librarian Emma Kennedy.
GV Libraries also had three local winners, who each read at least 10 books to qualify.
They were rewarded with a Collins Booksellers gift card and a library bag for their efforts.
