5 July 2018

A Medway author and secondary school teacher is pledging all profits from the sales of his children’s books on Amazon to Beanstalk throughout July to help more children who struggle with reading.

Gary Hake from Chatham, who writes a series of popular children’s books featuring the adventures of Vincent the Vulgar, has been a committed supporter of the charity for a number of years in an effort to get more children reading and enjoying books.

Gary has taught engineering and design technology for over 15 years and was inspired to begin writing a series of children’s books after seeing how much both his sons love to read.

He said: "We cannot underestimate the power of reading! It can open doors for children that could be otherwise shut. I feel that by giving a child a chance to read for themselves, is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. It can enhance their imagination, broaden their thinking and in turn, create life skills by giving them the best possible start from an early age. This is why the work and dedication from Beanstalk charity and their volunteers is so important and immense. By donating the profits from July, this is purely my way of recognition and thanking them for all the good that they do.”

Beanstalk works across Medway and wider Kent to support children that struggle with learning to read. The charity trains volunteers who then work with three children, one-to-one, at a local school, twice a week for 30 minutes each at a time. The sessions are engaging, interactive and hugely beneficial to the children receiving extra support and are often a turning point for struggling and reluctant readers.

Malou Bengtsson-Wheeler, Beanstalk Area Manager in the South East, said:

“We are so appreciative of the support Gary Hake gives to Beanstalk in Medway and the South East. As a teacher and author Gary really understands the importance of our work in this area and the need to get more children engaged in reading from an early age to give them the best possible opportunities in the future. What’s more, Gary’s books deliver a great ‘story time’ read with important messages at the heart of them and we hope many more children will enjoy them.”

All five of Gary Hake’s books are available to buy on Amazon with 100% of profits being donated to Beanstalk's Crowdfunding campaign throughout July, which aims to raise £50,000 over four weeks.