The Children's Book Festival, which was launched today, will see over 1,000 events held around the country this month.
Events include author visits, illustration workshops, puppet theatre, storytelling and competitions in schools, libraries, bookshops and community centres.
The festival, which is organised by Children's Books Ireland (CBI), in association with the Youth Libraries Group, runs from today until October 26 th. This is the 17 thyear it has been held.
Minister of State for Children Brendan Smith said the festival was intended to promote interest in reading among children. "Through books, children can enter a world of adventure, mystery, science, travel and story telling," he said.
"Literacy is a life-skill that encourages learning and social and economic participation and which can help lower the likelihood of future poverty and social exclusion."