Read Around the World (and Beyond) is a reading challenge designeD to encourage a culture of reading among our students.
Choose from 90 books spanning the world and beyond. The list is divided into 6 continents and Before (historical), After (futures/dystopian) and Beyond (sci-fi/other worlds).
Explore the map below to view each list. Click on a title to view the book in our library catalogue, where you can read a summary and check a book’s availability. Alternatively, you can download a copy of the list here.
What are the prizes?
Stress reduction, knowledge, mental stimulation, vocabulary expansion, an improved memory, stronger analytical thinking skills, improved focus and concentration, better writing skills AND:
For every book read : 1 green chit
At 3 books read : bronze certificate
At 6 books read : silver certificate and a £5 Amazon voucher
At 9 books read : gold certificate and a £10 Amazon voucher
How can I prove I have read a book?
You can demonstrate your completion of a book by submitting one of the following:
A review
An alternative ending
A plot pitch for a sequel
Alternate cover artwork
Click the buttons to download a template to either print out and handwrite or to type on digitally. Complete whichever one feels best and send / hand in to the Library (dcslibrary@deanclose.org.uk) or to your English teacher. Then present your Reading Passport to have it stamped!
I’m A BUSY PERSON. How long DOES THE CHALLENGE TAKE?
You can begin or end the reading challenge whenever you choose and take as long as you want. Some may achieve awards within a year; some may do it over several years.
MUST I READ A BOOK FROM EACH LIST?
Nope. You can choose books from as many, or as few, lists as you like. We do encourage a breadth of reading though, so we hope you will ‘travel’ to as many places as possible.
What if I don’t like any of the books on the list?
Unlikely! Our extensive list includes fiction and non-fiction books from a variety of genres; some are challenging reads and others are more accessible. If you need help choosing a book, please ask a librarian or your English teacher.
If you’re still feeling uninspired, you can read essentially any book as long as you can tell us where the book is set!
Who can take part in the challenge?
We have launched our reading challenge with 4th Form but older students are more than welcome to take part. There’s nothing to stop staff taking part, too (no prizes for staff though - sorry!).
I don’t have a reading passport!
If you are in 4th Form, you should have been given one by your English teacher. If you have lost it, ask them or a librarian for a replacement.
If you want to start the challenge and are in a different year group, you can get a passport from the library.
When can I start?
Immediately!
Happy reading.