This story has a difficult beginning. 1 in 4 Scottish adults would struggle to read this story. That's because around one quarter of the Scottish population (26.7%) face challenges with their literacy.

This problem starts early. By the age of three, children from the most prosperous households have heard 30 million more words than children from impoverished homes. When they are five, the vocabulary of children from low-income households is typically more than a year behind those from high-income families.

Each year, thousands of children in Scotland leave primary school unable to read fluently.

This causes long-term challenges as these children become young people with limited life choices and then adults with limited employment opportunities.

Developing a love of reading is one of the most effective ways to help children escape the poverty cycle and improve their long-term life chances. This love of reading can help them grow into thriving adults, with a good education, increased job prospects and the chance to contribute positively to society.

Help us to get all of Scotland reading.

Every year, we ask people across Scotland to write true stories on a particular theme. Giving individuals space to express their creativity and develop their personal voice is massively important and also encourages a lifelong passion for reading.

In 2019, we need your help to publish and gift 100,000 copies of a new book of true stories called Blether.

Donate today and as a thank you,

1. Every person who donates will be named in our book and we will contact you to ask if you would like 25 copies to gift to your friends and family.

2. If you donate over £20, you'll also receive a Book Week Scotland badge.

3. If you donate over £50, you'll also receive a limited edition Book Week Scotland tote bag (50 available).

Help transform lives through reading by donating today.

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