Spellbinding is the Cumbrian Secondary Schools’ Book Award which gives students in years 7 – 9 the opportunity to vote for their favourite book from a shortlist of student nominated titles.

Spellbinding Reading Groups will be established in the 18 schools taking part from across the county, encouraging students to debate, discuss and deliberate the merits of individual titles during the Spring and Summer terms. This culminates in the award day in June when students will vote for the Spellbinding book of 2018.

The award aims to encourage students to foster a love of reading; to read more widely by extending and broadening reading choices; builds reading stamina; and to encourage students to express their own views helping to improve speaking and listening skills, critical skills and self-confidence all within a supportive environment.