Jonathan Stroud announced as inaugural patron of the Federation of Children’s Book Groups

The Federation of Children’s Book Groups has announced Jonathan Stroud as the organisation’s inaugural patron. As patron, Jonathan will champion the FCBG and raise awareness of its work bringing children and books together.

Stroud will begin his patronage via two high-profile appearances: he’ll be presenting a keynote speech at the FCBG’s annual conference in Reading in April and he’ll be doing an author/patron event at the first Wantage Children’s Book Festival in May.

Describing his appointment, Jonathan Stroud says, ‘For almost 60 years, the FCBG has been at the forefront of championing children’s reading in the UK. Its commitment to authors, illustrators, librarians, teachers and – most importantly – to young readers themselves is second to none. I have witnessed this invaluable work throughout my life. My connection to the FCBG started as a child, when my mother was a member of one of the earliest book groups, in St Albans. Ever since, as an author and as a parent, I have benefited from the passion, guidance and commitment of FCBG members across the country. It is a privilege to deepen this connection today and I look forward to working with the FCBG to help share the joy of reading for everyone.’

Jane Etheridge, Chair of the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, says, ‘We are thrilled to have Jonathan as our patron. Jonathan shares our aims and has a close personal connection with the FCBG, so he was the perfect choice when we created this role. We look forward to working with Jonathan in this National Year of Reading and beyond to promote reading for pleasure.’

Jonathan Stroud is the author of three internationally bestselling series: the award-winning Bartimaeus books, which have been published in 36 languages; the critically acclaimed Lockwood & Co., which has been turned into a Netflix series; and the adventures of the outlaws Scarlett and Browne.