Kinderboekenweek

Kinderboekenweek, or Children's Book Week, is a yearly event in the Netherlands that promotes children's literature and reading among young readers. It is organized by the Stichting CPNB (Stichting Collectieve Propaganda van het Boek) and has become one of the country’s major cultural campaigns for children. The event began in 1955 and has since grown into a nationwide initiative involving libraries, schools, and bookshops.

The week usually takes place in October and lasts about ten days. Each year a specific theme is chosen to guide activities, readings, and book selections. A distinctive feature is the Kinderboekenweekgeschenk, a short novel written especially for the event by a well-known author. This gift is published for the week and distributed through participating bookstores, often available to readers who purchase other children's books during the promotion.

Throughout Kinderboekenweek, a wide range of activities is organized, including author visits, readings, workshops, and theatre performances in libraries, schools, and cultural venues. The campaign highlights picture books as well as novels for older children, encouraging families to explore new titles and authors together.

Impact and scope: Kinderboekenweek aims to foster a lasting interest in reading and literacy among children and their families. It remains one of the Netherlands’ most visible and enduring efforts to promote children's literature.