Imagine a day set in and around a enchanting old manor house, where children literally step inside a story, track down and chase some of their favourite children’s book characters, spend a day of family fun with their favourite books coming to life . Well, that’s just the idea behind the Oxfordshire Children’s Read-a-thon thanks to the inspired Anne Wattam, a teacher and Milton resdient!
There will be LOTS of storytelling, poems will fill the air.
Well-known children’s authors David Melling (Hugless Douglas), Alan Gibbons (Shadow of the Minotaur) and up-an-coming illustrator/author Charlie Sutcliffe will be giving readings from their books and offering book signings. They will also be joined by children’s poet John Foster who will be passing on his enthusiasm for poetry with readings and talks. There will be raffle prizes to strike lucky with, and competitions to be won, including:
- Extreme Reading Competition- for children to take a picture of the most extreme places they’ve been caught reading ;
- Best Poetry Competition;
- Best Story Character Illustration;
- Best Story Character Costume.
The Read-a-thon will include a 32 characters Story Character Hunt from favourite children’s book characters current and old. …and much much more!
Come along to the FREE family event, the Read-a-thon, at Milton Manor, Oxfordshire on the 14th September 2013 11am- 4pm

I’m going and taking the Littlins too. I’ll also be taking a bit of Barefoot Books colour with me… don’t ask me how, as I don’t yet know. But I will surely figure it out.
Are you coming to the Children’s Read-A-Thon?
Sounds like a great day. Do you know if it suitable for all ages? My daughter is 4 and her reading is pretty basic.
I will check our calendar later and see what we’re doing. I have a feeling it maybe the same day as something else, but can’t think what. I may have some decisions to make. If we decide to go I’ll let you know.
Oh sounds great! I hope to see you there . 🙂
Hi Kate, I am one of the helpers on the day and yes, it is suitable for children of all ages – I’m sure your 4 year old will find plenty to amuse and entertain her….storytelling, drawing and painting activities, face-painting, following the Gruffalo trail to name but a few. There’s a tearoom on site but feel free to bring a picnic and enjoy the park under the shade of one of the magnificent trees too,.
Sarah Keogh
Have just put it in my diary – sounds great. We currently love Albie from Welcome to Alien School – sure it will change next week!
Milton Manor House is beautiful well worth a look and lots to do for the children.
Thanks Richard! I look forward to our visit.
It’s not possible to choose one favourite, I’d be hard pressed to narrow it down to one hundred! We love books. Today’s favourite is the Troll from Troll and the Oliver by Adam Stower.
This looks brilliant. I always find that this time of year has so much to offer events wise and we have such little time as we adjust back to weekends only! I always feel torn when I see all the great things being put on. I’m a huge fan of Barefoot Books too.
Any event that gets kids into a local library has got a lot going for it! We’ve a great local library up here in Perth, too 🙂
the hungry caterpillar x
Sam I Am in Green Eggs and Ham
Sounds like a fabulous day. My 4yo currently love Harry the Dog (from Harry the Dirty Dog, Harry by the Sea etc) . x
Sounds like a great event! We live nearby and my book-loving 4 year old would love it!
Did you make it to the Read-a-thon? It was so much fun!