Penguin Random House UK Supports Children’s Literacy

As part of the UK’s “National Year of Reading”, Penguin Random House UK has announced a major new initiative to support independent bookshops and help spark a lifelong love of reading in children and young people. The publishing group is investing £150,000 in the newly launched “Penguin Children’s Bookshop Grant 2026”. Francesca Dow, Managing Director of Penguin Random House Children’s, said: “At Penguin Random House Children’s we want to spark children’s imaginations and help them find the book that’s just right for them. From first picture books to the newest Young Adult series, independent bookshops play a vital role in helping us do this and we want to build on the brilliant work they do. Whether it’s picture-book corners, author events in partnership with local schools, enticing window displays or specialist reading clubs, independent bookshops have always created imaginative and successful ways to connect their local community with the joy and love of reading.” The “Penguin Children’s Bookshop Grant 2026” will fund projects designed to help children and young people build positive, lasting relationships with books. Independent bookshops can apply for grants between £1,500 and £5,000.