Get Ready for World Book Day 2021

I’ve always loved to read. I can tell you the first book I read out loud myself: Farmyard Tales by Stephen Cartwright (my mum recently told me I couldn’t actually read it, I just knew all the words by memory - but I won’t let that spoil my illusion).

So World Book Day was always a day of great excitement as I donned my costume and headed to primary school. The only costume I vividly remember is Pongo from 101 Dalmations, those black spots stayed on my face for days!

This year World Book Day is on Thursday 4th March and across the country children will be dressing up and taking advantage of their £1 book tokens.

Coming up with different costume ideas each year can be quite difficult, so we thought we’d share some ideas from Christian books:

A Wemmick from Max Lucado’s Wemmicks stories

Max Lucado’s adorable small wooden folk. This cute costume will need a patched green outfit finished with a pointed hat and green eyebrows!

A Hobbit from J.R.R Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings

Travelling cloaks, backpacks and hairy toes (if you’re feeling particularly authentic!) Take inspiration from the film franchise and let children decide if you’re Samwise or Frodo.

Aslan from C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

Everyone’s favourite lion and a good excuse to get the face paints out! But remember, Aslan isn’t a friendly lion, so think brave and strong rather than cute and cuddly!

The Shepherd from Stories Jesus Told by Nick Butterworth

Nick Butterworth and Mick Inkpen bring Bible stories to life, including the story of the lost sheep (Matthew 18: 12-14, Luke 15:3-7). Traditional shepherds attire is needed for this character: tea-towel hair covering, sandals, crook and maybe a sheep or two (probably best to stick with the stuffed animal kind!)

John Newton from Ten Boys Who Changed the World by Irene Howat

John Newton (1725 - 1807), was an Anglican clergyman, royal navy sailor and known for writing the hymn, Amazing Grace and his work to abolish the slave trade.

For this costume, traditional clergy robes and a white wig are required.

Katherine Luther from Ten Girls Who Made a Difference by Irene Howat

Katherine Luther (1499 - 1552). As the wife of Martin Luther, she was the first lady of the reformation. According to portraits, the costume will need a hairnet, high necked blouse, lots of black clothing and ideally, a severe expression.

What have you got planned for World book day?

Previously published as 'Get Ready for World Book Day 2019'