Former teachers Elizabeth and Robert Lewis were shocked to learn that almost 20 per cent of children aged 5-8 in the UK do not own a single book. (National Literacy Trust 2023). Determined to make a difference, they launched Kooky Kids World, the online children’s platform that’s ‘Full of Fun Stories for Free.’

“Our goal is to ignite the imagination of children and inspire a lifelong love for reading,” said co-founder Liz Lewis.

“I live in Tenby and recently launched Kooky Kids World (December 2024), a website offering free children’s stories. It’s a place where parents and kids can listen to or read stories—because while reading is an essential skill, who says it shouldn’t be fun?”

As the cost of living crisis bites ever deeper, the focus is on Food Banks and libraries. To celebrate World Book Day (March 6) flyers with a QR code linking to Kooky Kids World have been sent out with food parcels and distributed throughout Pembrokeshire by the charity PATCH (Pembrokeshire Action to Combat Hardship).

Cassie Chadderton, CEO of World Book Day says: “World Book Day exists to encourage more children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to benefit from a life-long habit of reading for pleasure”.

PATCH’s director, Dave Golding says “We see desperate parents every day and it’s a joy to be able offer children something that’s Educational, Fun and Free”.

Kooky Kids World is also committed to celebrating Welsh heritage by adding classic Welsh folktales such as The Tale of Gelert. Plans are underway to translate the entire site into Welsh.

“We would love to hear from Welsh speakers who want to help share these stories with more children,” added co-founder Robert Lewis.

For more information, visit www.kookykidsworld.com or email [email protected]