Summer Reading Challenge 2026
In May, we were commissioned by Bolton Libraries to write a song for The Reading Agency's Summer Reading Challenge 2026.
The first decision literally sprang off the page. We didn't need a working title. We had our title already. Our song would be called Read to the Beat
The Reading Agency challenge 'invited children to embark on an excting reading journey' involving their local library or online. A comprehensive book collection was offerered: Younger Readers and Older Readers. This then became the springboard for our lyrics.
For example, verse 1 outlined to listeners what the challenge was all about:
"Summer Reading Challenge starts on fourth of July,
You can choose your avatar on which you will rely.
Stories full of rhythm and some rap and pop.
Pick you book from off the lib'ry shelf and don't you stop!
Take your time, enjoy your book and Read to the Beat!"
Verse 2 focused on the younger readers s collection of books:
"Younger readers choose from text or picture books,
Hear the magic of the drums and the rhythmical hooks.
Listen to some Bhangra of the marching bands.
Use your busy little fingers as you clap you hands.
Take your time, enjoy your book and Read to the Beat!"
How did we grab the attention and engagement of the children? Use something catchy, something with a strong groove, something that becomes a bit of an 'earworm'.
Right from the start, the introduction has a strong bass line and percussion build up. The guitars and electric piano are introduced to give a slightly different rhythmical feel.
We do the same in the 'bridge section'.This is where we encourage childen to play instruments or clap their hands to a series of rhythms that interlock together.
The vocal line also has a percussive, repetitive feel to it, again adding to the rhythmical texture.
The song was great fun to write. We hope childen had as much fun singing the song and exporing the rhythm pack material. The song was rolled out by the curriculum team from Bolton Music Service into a number of primary schools across Bolton.
Comments