WORLD BOOK DAY COMES TO SCHOOLS ACROSS THE UK WITH THE BIGGEST BOOK SHOW ON EARTH!

-          Brand new pre-record format makes taking part even easier!   -

-          Authors and illustrators share tips, give readings and answer questions for budding writers and illustrators -

Building on the success of last year’s The Biggest Book Show On Earth, World Book Day 2014 sees the launch of an exciting and brand new pre-recorded TV show format. Available online for the whole of March it includes all the wonderful World Book Day authors and illustrators.

Schools, parents and children across the nation can register to register, log on and enjoy watching it together at a time that suit.

Compared by CBBC’s Dick and Dom, the show features World Book Day authors and illustrators:

-          James Patterson

-          David Melling

-          Emily Gravett

-          Jill Murphy

-          Jim Smith

-          Lauren St John

-          Terry Deary

-          Martin Brown

-          Alex T Smith

-          Sarah Lean

-          Robert Muchamore

-          Maureen Johnson

How does James Patterson keep people turning the page? What does Terry Deary recommend for making facts fun?  How does David Melling decide what his characters should look like?  All this and more will be answered along with other fun and useful hints and tips.

Filmed at Stanley Park High School, each of the £1 authors also answer questions submitted from children across the country as well giving an excerpt from their World Book Day book and talking about their inspirations. 

Kirsten Grant, Director of World Book Day, said: "We are very excited about yet another fantastic line up for this year’s show, which will now be even more accessible with the new download option that’s lets schools, partents and children watch together at a time that works best for them. The Biggest Book Show on Earth is a great way to introduce children all over the world to some of the country’s best authors and illustrators. We can't wait to spark the creativity of millions of children!"

For the second year running The Biggest Book Show On Earth will also be broadcast, into Picturehouse Cinemas across the UK. Schools who go along to one of the screenings will also be treated to an extra special 20 minutes of exclusive content, including readings and a Q&A session.

Marc Allenby, Head of Commercial Development at Picturehouse, said: “We are delighted to bring World Book Day to cinemas up and down the country once again. Engaging with local schools and the community is key for our cinemas.”

Schools, groups and parents can find out more by registering to watch on www.worldbookday.com/biggest-book-show. 

Half a million children from more than 75 countries logged on to watch the Show in 2013, which this year is just one of a number of events and activities in schools, bookshops and libraries set to excite youngsters about books and reading for World Book Day 2014.

Ten new books including titles by performers from this year’s Biggest Book Show on Earth line-up can be exchanged for free with a special £1 World Book Day Book.

Visit www.worldbookday.com for more information, the latest news and to subscribe to the free monthly World Book Day e-newsletter.

Winston's Wish launch new website!

Winston’s Wish, the UK’s leading charity for bereaved children, is delighted to announce the launch of its new website which retains the original URL and is now live: www.winstonswish.org.uk.  

The informative new website has a fresh new look with user friendly navigation. Visitors to the site can easily access the useful guidance and support provided for parents and carers supporting bereaved children along with information for schools and professionals. Impactful images and videos have been added to tell the story of the life changing work performed by Winston’s Wish.

The aim of the new Winston’s Wish website is to provide a more logical journey for the user. Visitors to the site can now access all of the information they need with just a few clicks and can easily view the full range of services that Winston’s Wish offers to grieving families.

The new Winston’s Wish website has a variety of engaging functions enabling users to interact directly with the charity.  Visitors to the site can directly acquire award winning publications and useful resources which address issues arising from supporting bereaved children and young people.  The publications offer clear guidance, advice and practical suggestions to parents, carers and professionals. Supporters of Winston’s Wish can register for fundraising events, volunteer to provide vital help to the charity and make donations.

Plans to redesign the ‘Young People’ interactive section of the site are in progress with a launch date anticipated in autumn 2014.

The team at Winston’s Wish have embraced current online channels and have incorporated Facebook and twitter into the website design with real time social media feeds. There is also an up-to-the minute media centre designed for journalists and media professionals, where a host of useful resources including media contact details, brand guidelines, press releases and more can be accessed.

Catherine Ind, Chief Executive of Winston’s Wish commented:  “We are delighted to launch a new and much improved website that will provide an effective and cohesive aid to directly support children and their families before, during and after bereavement.  We encourage new and existing users to visit the new site and learn more about the services offered by Winston’s Wish.”

“Winston’s Wish is looking to deliver a cutting edge experience in digital communications through the launch of the new website. This will enhance the exceptional service offered year-round by the charity.” Catherine continued.

The Winston’s Wish Helpline, staffed by qualified clinical practitioners, provides guidance and information for anyone supporting a bereaved child - 08452 03 04 05, 9am-5pm Monday – Friday and 7pm-9.30pm on Wednesday.