Pottermus and Boomer star in new children’s book to inspire young readers
Schoolchildren have helped launch a new book featuring Pottermus and Boomer as part of efforts to encourage a lifelong love of reading.
Children at Maple Court Academy were among the first to hear the story, called ‘Meet the Mascots’, and take part in a special storytelling and drawing session led by author Tom Watt and illustrator Matt Buckingham.
The book introduces young readers to Stoke City and Port Vale mascots through an engaging adventure designed to spark children’s imaginations and make reading fun.
Once printed, copies of the book will be gifted to children helping more families enjoy reading together at home.
(Image SOT City Council)
During the visit, author Tom – known to television audiences as Eastenders’ Lofty Holloway – brought the story to life with a reading session for reception pupils.
Illustrator Matt shared the creative process behind the book and helped children develop their own drawing skills through an interactive workshop.
The book has been developed as part of Stoke-on-Trent’s Family Matters programme, which works with families to improve outcomes for children and give them the best possible start in life.
The initiative builds on evidence showing the importance of early language and literacy development in improving children’s educational outcomes and life chances. The project aims to support reading both in the classroom and at home.
Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Reading is one of the most important skills a child can develop and we want every child in Stoke-on-Trent to have the best possible start in life.
“This book is a fantastic example of how our Family Matters programme is finding creative ways to support children’s learning and development.
“Pottermus and Boomer are instantly recognisable characters for many local children and this book is a brilliant way of using that connection to encourage young people to enjoy stories, develop their imagination and build a love of reading.
“It was wonderful to see the children so engaged with the story and taking part in the drawing activities with Tom and Matt.”
Author Tom Buckingham said: “I’ve been writing books about football for many years now, but Meet The Mascots has been very special. From being asked to help with the project by Jane Wood, my favourite editor, through to choosing the club’s mascots as the lead characters, and then to joining in at Maple Court Academy as the illustrator, Matt Buckingham, and two Reception classes brought the story to life: I’ve just had the best time all round!”
Publisher Jane Wood said: “Having spent many years as a commissioning editor, I have seen first hand the literacy challenges in Stoke-on-Trent and wanted to help. Sharing books with an adult at home is such a key experience to ignite a child’s reading and I came up with the idea of books that would be bespoke to Stoke-on-Trent.
“These books have been thoughtfully developed to specifically support local children and I cannot wait to see them enjoy these stories.”
The Best Start in Life project will also include the development of a book aimed at pre-school children.
