Author Dame Jacqueline Wilson reads to zoo animals

Dame Jacqueline Wilson has been reading to animals at an East Sussex zoo to mark World Book Day.

The former children's laureate read extracts from her best-selling book The Story of Tracey Beaker to the animals at Drusillas Zoo Park, near Alfriston.

The renowned novelist spent time with capybaras, lemurs, meerkats, monkeys, and sloths aiming to "inspire children to read their own way".

A zoo spokesperson said the author had "a natural way with the animals".

She added: "Capybara baby Tango demanded cuddles from the author, lemur Clementine happily settled down next to her, and meerkat Blossom sat on her lap to listen to the story."

Gemma Romanis, head keeper, said: "I grew up reading the Tracey Beaker books, and she definitely inspired a love of reading for me, so it’s wonderful with the help of Jacqueline to encourage other children to read by showing them that even our animals enjoy it.”

“Reading to the animals is of course a fun way to take part in a worldwide celebration, but it also forms part of our daily enrichment programmes for our animals."

Dame Jacqueline Wilson has written more than 100 children's books since her debut novel in 1969.

World Book Day is an annual event aimed at getting children to read for pleasure.

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