Children’s author Tom Palmer
Cornwall Libraries is delighted to announce that children’s author Tom Palmer will be its ambassador throughout the National Year of Reading (2026).
Tom, who has sold over one million books, is renowned for creating fast-paced, gripping stories that hook even the most reading-shy children.
Teachers, librarians and parents across the country praise him for sparking a love of books in those who need it most.
Tom is currently working on an exciting new Cornish trilogy set during the Second World War, titled Allies. The first book in the series, If the Invader Comes, draws on real events, real landscapes, and real Cornish courage, bringing to life an era that shaped communities across the Duchy.
As part of his ambassador role, Tom will be working closely with Cornwall Libraries to champion reading, celebrate stories, and inspire young people (and the not-so-young) through events, workshops, school visits and library engagement.
The Department for Education and National Literacy Trust are launching the National Year of Reading in January 2026.
The aim of the campaign is to help reverse the decline in reading. It comes after just one in three aged 8 to 18 said they enjoyed reading in their free time in 2025.
Tom Palmer said: “It is my absolute honour to be the National Year of Reading ambassador for Cornwall Libraries. Cornwall is my favourite place on earth and where my family and I will be living permanently from January onwards. I also love libraries. Libraries changed my life and gave me access to the books that gave me access to the world. So this is a perfect role for me. I will do everything I can to champion Cornwall’s libraries and all the good work they do.”
Councillor Sarah Preece, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Libraries and Culture at Cornwall Council, said: “This partnership is a fantastic boost for Cornwall’s National Year of Reading. With Tom’s involvement we’ll reach young people and encourage them to connect with stories that reflect their own interests and passions
"It’s wonderful to see Cornwall’s Libraries highlighting that reading can be sparked by what people love the most.”
Find out more about local events for the National Year of Reading on the Cornwall Libraries Facebook page.
Press release issued on December 11, 2025