Kent-based author Tolá Okogwu has donated 30,000 books to UK schools to support children from disadvantaged backgrounds, per bbc.com.
The donation, featuring copies of her popular title Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun, was distributed through Bookmark Reading Charity. The initiative coincides with the charity’s “Mind the Gap” campaign, which aims to bridge the growing literacy divide between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.
Speaking on the Kamilah McInnis Show, Okogwu emphasised the importance of engagement: “We want kids to read, but they’re not going to do it if they’re not enjoying it. I’m all about bringing the fun back to reading.”
This latest contribution follows a series of major donations by the author including 25,000 copies of the Onyeka series donated in 2024 via the National Literacy Trust, 2,000 copies of her Daddy Do My Hair series distributed last November as well as international support provided to refugee camps across Africa and Asia.
“So many children don’t own a single book at home,” Okogwu noted. “That’s what excited me most about this donation.”
A national survey by Bookmark revealed that only 38% of children frequently read for pleasure. Common barriers include digital distractions, lack of time and dwindling library access—issues that disproportionately affect lower-income families.
Emily Jack, CEO of Bookmark Reading Charity, warned that public support is vital: “We cannot close the literacy gap without public involvement.” The charity is currently calling for volunteers to commit just one hour a week to support struggling readers.
Okogwu added that falling behind in literacy puts children “on the back foot” compared to their peers, affecting both their future equality and overall wellbeing.
•Featured image: Tolá Okogwu/Adedotun Adegborioye/Obavisuals
