CHILDREN’S author Elizabeth Jade, from Wellington, is promoting a scheme to get school pupils to read more.

The author of Akea – Power of Destiny is supporting the Book Buddy scheme, set up to help readers give books to schools, and International Book Giving Day being held tomorrow (Thursday).

She says the Book Buddy project was set up to provide books to schools struggling with budget constraints.

Elizabeth, 20, who is autistic, said: “I discovered the Book Buddy scheme via social media. As an avid reader during my own childhood, I find it hard to imagine having limited access to such an enjoyable thing as reading.

“Fortunately, struggling schools can sign up to the scheme on the Book Buddy website. The interactive map makes it really easy to find a school to support and contact details for them are provided on site, too. It was here I discovered primary schools listed in my area.”

Akea follows the story of a young husky, who realises her future lies beyond the safety of her home. It is a heart-warning tale of family, love and being different.

Elizabeth added: “This year National Storytelling Week ran from January 26 to February 2 and it seemed a perfect time to donate my book ‘Akea’ to schools on the Book Buddy scheme.

“This naturally lead to the idea of donating to schools in Wellington and, as February 14 is International Book Giving Day, this seemed a perfect time to do this. Book Giving Day is all about getting books into the hands of as many children as possible. Many children have limited access to books, some own no books at all.

“There are all sorts of ways for people to be involved. You can donate books to charities, kids’ clubs, waiting rooms, anywhere you can think of. You can even attach a note explaining it’s a gift they can feel free to take home. The books don’t have to be new – the important thing is that they are in good condition. More information is available on www.bookingivingday.com.”

Elizabeth Jade was born in North Yorkshire and moved with her family to Wellington when she was very young.

She stumbled into writing aged 14 when she began to struggle with depression and anxiety. It was not until the age of 18 that she realised her struggles in school had been due to Asperger Syndrome – an autistic spectrum disorder.

She has always had a passion for animals and so it seemed only natural that her stories would revolve around them.