By Tim Saunders on
Author Philip Pullman is applauding a decision by the British government not to cut funding to a charity that provides books to children.
Booktrust was set to lose £13m of government funding for its bookgifting programs in England, but a U-turn by parliament means the organization can continue its work.
“Every child is [in need of books],” the author – best known for the His Dark Materials series of books, including Northern Lights/The Golden Compass – told the BBC. “There is no point on focusing on who you think are the most needy if you miss the rest. This is something that is universal, it should be like healthcare – everybody should be able to benefit from it.”
Booktrust is an independent UK-wide charity dedicated to encouraging people of all ages and cultures to enjoy books. According to the charity: "At Booktrust, we recognise that rapid changes in technology are impacting on the way books are produced and bought. We want to ensure that no one is left behind and everyone has access to and choices about which books they read, and the confidence to appreciate and enjoy them.
“We aim to make a national impact encouraging positive attitudes to books, reading for pleasure and family reading, by providing book gifts for children, resources and targeted campaigns. In this way, we ensure that every child and adult has the opportunity to experience the delight and power of books and the written word, regardless of income, language, literacy skills, disability or culture.”
Find out more about Booktrust here.
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