Every Year 6 student in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and P6 in Scotland, will receive Katherine Rundell's bestselling book Impossible Creatures this Christmas, part of the government's National Year of Reading. Queen Camilla announced The Queen's Christmas Present initiative on her birthday, aiming to boost reading enjoyment among children. The book, a fantasy about a magical archipelago with mythical creatures, was named Waterstones book of the year in 2023.
Why This Initiative Matters for Reading Enjoyment
Research by the National Literacy Trust (NLT) shows reading enjoyment among children drops sharply between primary and secondary school. In a 2026 survey of 125,375 UK children, enjoyment fell by 30% from ages 8–11 (47.7%) to 11–14 (33.2%). This gift addresses that decline by providing a compelling story at a critical age.
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How the Book Distribution Works
The NLT, working with the queen, will distribute over 800,000 copies through schools, libraries, hospitals, care settings, refuges, and food banks. The special edition includes a stamp on the cover and a note from the queen inside. Rundell said, "This generation of brilliant kids face extraordinary challenges ahead. Books will be their strongest and sharpest tools."
Comparison of Reading Enjoyment by Age Group
| Age Group | Reading Enjoyment (%) | Decline from Previous Group |
|---|---|---|
| 8–11 years | 47.7% | – |
| 11–14 years | 33.2% | 30% drop |
Key Takeaways from the Initiative
- 800,000+ books distributed to Year 6 and P6 students across the UK.
- Targets the steepest decline in reading enjoyment between primary and secondary school.
- Special edition features a queen's note and exclusive cover stamp.
- Supports literacy through schools, libraries, and community centers.
- Aligned with the government's National Year of Reading campaign.
FAQ
Who is eligible for the free book?
Every child in Year 6 (England, Wales, Northern Ireland) and P6 (Scotland), plus equivalent age children in hospitals, care settings, refuges, and food banks.
What is Impossible Creatures about?
It's a fantasy novel by Katherine Rundell set in a magical archipelago where mythical creatures live, named Waterstones book of the year in 2023.
Why is this initiative important?
Reading enjoyment drops 30% between ages 8–11 and 11–14, and this gift aims to reverse that trend by providing an engaging book at a pivotal age.
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