Last year, Dublin libraries asked me to be a part of their new Reading Champions scheme. I was very happy to say yes – I love to be part of anything that encourages young children to read.

This week I got my reward when I was invited to the big Reading Champions launch in Dublin.  The place was awash with children, writers, mayors and sportsmen.

Oisin McGann drew this brilliant picture:

The highlight was when all the reading champions were presented with a gold (coloured) medal by Ruairi Quinn, minister for education and skills.

I confess I was very proud  –  I’m not sure that I’ve ever won a medal before.

Here are the authors who attended, all showing off their medals and their favourite books. And no, I have no idea why it looks like we’re all just about to slide off the stage.