SCHOOL libraries in South Ayrshire have launched a new reading challenge to encourage pupils to broaden their understanding and engagement with social injustice issues.

The ‘Read Woke’ challenge aims to inspire secondary school pupils and staff to celebrate diversity and explore social viewpoints by reading books outside their social norm.

Pupils can choose one of the 14 carefully selected titles to read, complete a review card and collect stamps to earn a Read Woke pin badge.

The Read Woke challenge was developed in the United States of America in 2017 to help students become empowered with knowledge, and South Ayrshire Council is the first local authority in Scotland to sign up.

Each school will have their own take on the challenge, with a number of teaching resources being created and shared.

Councillor William Grant, South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children and Young People said: “The Read Woke challenge is a great initiative to help pupils become more aware of social injustice issues, and spark their interest in books they may not ordinarily have picked up.”

“Reading provides a gateway to different viewpoints.”