The first title of the book club set up by Marcus Rashford will be published in May next year.
Aside from his goal-scoring career at Manchester United FC, Marcus Rashford has been rather busy the past few months. From leading the campaign to extend the free school meal scheme during the holidays to being awarded the Pride of Britain award and an Honorary Degree from the University of Manchester, the footballer is now focusing on encouraging children to read more.
Remember when I said I was working on something…📚 https://t.co/bGpbUglskx
— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) November 17, 2020
It was announced this morning that Marcus Rashford would be launching a book club to help children experience the escapism of reading. The Manchester United player has teamed up with Macmillan Children’s Books (MCB) to create the scheme, in an effort to advocate reading and literacy to children across all backgrounds.
Rashford told Sky News that he wished he had been given the chance to read earlier in life, however his family had to prioritise food over books when it came to budgeting. The striker, who only started reading at 17 years old, said it completely changed his outlook and mentality.
Imagine if all children were on an equal playing field. Imagine if we all started at the line equal instead of 20 yards behind. Imagine children waking up believing that their dreams could come true. Imagine what that belief could do for the future of this country…
— Marcus Rashford (@MarcusRashford) November 16, 2020
The footballer said: “There were times where the escapism of reading could have really helped me. I want this escapism for all children. Not just those that can afford it. We know there are over 380,000 children across the UK today that have never owned a book, children that are in vulnerable environments. That has to change.”
“My books are, and always will be, for every child, even if I have to deliver them myself. We will reach them.”
Secret's out.
Delighted to say I'm working with @MarcusRashford to create a children's book.
Alongside @KatieWarriner, we'll launch "YOU ARE A CHAMPION: Unlock Your Potential, Find Your Voice and Be the BEST You Can Be" in May 2021 https://t.co/bwcekuqIP9
— Carl Anka (@Ankaman616) November 17, 2020
The first book in the scheme, and set to be published in May next year, has been written in collaboration with The Athletic journalist, Carl Anka, and performance psychologist, Katie Warriner, titled: You Are A Champion: Unlock Your Potential, Find Your Voice And Be The Best You Can Be.
Each chapter will contain a story from Rashford’s life and will encourage children to learn more about culture, education, positivity and female role models. Plus, Marcus Rashford already has plans to release two further books as part of the book club, with publishing dates in 2021 and 2022.