England Schools Pivot from World Book Day Costumes to Reading Focus

England's schools are shifting away from the traditional practice of students dressing up as literary characters for World Book Day, according to testimony heard by Members of Parliament (MPs). Literacy experts cite growing concerns over the financial burden of costumes, as well as fears that the dressing-up narrative may detract from the core goal of fostering a love of reading.

Jonathan Douglas, Chief Executive of the National Literacy Trust, told the Commons' education select committee that many schools are now