Throughout the UK and the World, there are many thousands of children without access to storybooks. But being able to read is an essential skill in this increasingly complex world. From stories, children can understand some of the issues they may have to deal with in the future, also they know they are not alone – that others may be thinking and feeling the way they do.

Stories open lines of communication, mainly if parents/teachers/ carers provide opportunities to discuss what they are reading, and they see how others have found solutions to problems. Reading also helps develop vocabulary and broadens a child’s imaginations. It improves writing skills and helps with confidence when speaking.

As the author the Billy Growing Up books – stories which deal with emotional wellbeing and turning negative behaviours into positive outcomes – I am particularly keen to get this eight-book series into as many children’s hands as possible.

Aimed at 6 to 9-year-olds, this age range prefers real books – paperbacks – and although I have personally donated over 7,000 books - paperback, eBooks and audiobooks - to more than 40 reading charities I cannot reach the numbers of charities and number of children I would like.

I need your help to finance my book donations and help spread reading further and faster. I have a list of another 50 plus reading charities that I know are desperate for books.

All donations will go toward printing and shipping costs. At present, I can only afford short print runs; therefore, the individual book cost is relatively high. With your generous donations, I will be able to do longer book runs and ship a greatly increased number of copies.

We are entering the festive season, and I know your generosity knows no bounds. From my heart, I’m asking you to donate be it £5 or £10 or even £20 Many thanks for taking the time to read this appeal and donating.

Wishing you all the best; James and all the children you help..