PANEL

The Star Reads Recommended Reading List has been complied by our experienced team who understand today’s melting pot society and the next generation coming up along with the decline in reading. One of the major factors for this decline is that the literature currently available is not fuelling enjoyment for young people which leads to a key element of young people’s education being missed. To ensure we fully meet your needs, in addition to Star Reads experienced team, we also have influential professionals as an independent reviewing panel of the literature selected for the Star Reads recommended reading list. The panel members selected have good understanding of multicultural Britain and the problems faced by those from Black and minority ethnic groups, and understand how literacy can contribute towards combating this.

Panel Member Statements

On viewing the Star Reads 2007 Recommended Reading List panel member Mike Clarke, Director of London Libraries Development Agency, said: “It's vital that children and young people read as much and as widely as possible. This sort of list shows just how exciting, relevant and readable books can be, and I hope it will inspire anyone who thinks they don't like reading to give it a go, as well as some great new recommendations for avid readers. Reading is the key to success - at work and at play - and it can help you with your problems, and to understand how other people think and live. But just as importantly it's great fun!”

Mike Clarke is Director of the London Libraries Development Agency, which seeks new ways to help people get more out of libraries and targets new audiences. Current projects include work to engage refugees and asylum seekers, health information through libraries and London Libraries Recommend. Mike was previously at Arts Council England and has worked in libraries in London, Manchester and Leicester.
For more information about Mike Clarke or London Libraries visit www.londonlibraries.org.uk

FEEDBACK – STAR READS 2006