Devon Libraries launch deep sea-themed summer reading adventure for children

Children across Devon are set to embark on an exciting literary voyage this summer as Libraries Unlimited launches its first-ever self-designed seasonal reading challenge: The Summer Book Quest – Deep Sea Adventure.

Running from 12th July to 6th September, this immersive, ocean-themed challenge invites children aged 5 to 12 to dive into stories and activities inspired by the deep blue sea. The initiative is a seasonal extension of Libraries Unlimited’s popular year-round programme, The Secret Book Quest, which encourages a love of reading among young people.

The Summer Book Quest stars familiar characters Pip, Zena, and the talking book Libro, as they plunge into a new underwater adventure. Created to spark imagination and keep literacy levels up during the long school break, the challenge is both free and open to all. To complete the quest, children are tasked with three simple but meaningful goals: visit the library, read what they love, and complete themed activities such as drawing sea creatures, trying water-based activities, or sharing ocean facts with library staff.

“This is a natural evolution of our work to promote reading for pleasure,” said Sophie Crofts, Reading Development Manager at Libraries Unlimited. “At a time when one in four children do not reach the expected reading level by age 11, it's vital we support them with fun, engaging ways to read. Research shows reading for enjoyment has a greater impact on children’s life chances than their family income or parents’ education.”

To be more inclusive, the challenge lets children track either the number of books read or the time spent reading—in 10-minute bursts. Each completed task earns a sticker, and finishing the quest unlocks a certificate, keyring, and finisher sticker.

To further enrich the experience, Devon-based children’s author Dan Metcalf was commissioned to write the new storyline, complete with playful additions like ninja starfish. The illustrations were created by Emily Fox, known for her work on The Secret Book Quest.

Community Collaboration and Ocean Awareness

Recognising Devon’s deep connection to the coast, the quest also has an environmental and active living angle. Libraries Unlimited has partnered with Surfers Against Sewage, Surfing England, and Active Devon to promote ocean conservation and physical activity. Surfing England will spread word of the challenge via local surf clubs and provide prizes, while Surfers Against Sewage will supply libraries with resources and access to their Ocean School.

Active Devon is helping to promote healthy lifestyles, and several local leisure centres, including Mid Devon Leisure and Fusion Lifestyle, will offer free or discounted swimming sessions to participating families.

“The underwater theme allows us to connect with our coastal communities while promoting the importance of looking after our oceans and planet,” said Crofts. “But most importantly, we’re making it fun and inclusive. Who doesn’t love a ninja starfish?”

Families can join for free at their nearest library, where children will receive a starter pack to begin their deep-sea journey. For more information, visit your local Devon library or check the Libraries Unlimited website.