World Book Day for seriously ill children
Every child deserves to experience the magic of World Book Day, but for many seriously ill children in hospitals, this special day can feel out of reach.
<World Book Day with Rays of Sunshine>
World Book Day and Rays of Sunshine
World Book Day is a time for children to dream, imagine, and escape into magical worlds.
Rays of Sunshine is working to make sure that seriously ill children aren’t left out by delivering World Book Day activities and books to hospitals across the UK.
This special day was part of our Sunshine in Hospitals programme, creating moments that bring joy, creativity and positive distraction
World Book Day 2026
Thanks to our supporters, we delivered over 2,600 official World Book Day books (titles included Chaos at the chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, Bear Rescue by Hannah Gold and One Big Family by Peppa Pig) to hospitals across the UK.
We also sent over 2,000 World Book Day activity packs for a range of ages including arts and crafts activities, bookmark making kits and activities to keep children and young people entertained while in hospital
Famous faces spread World Book Day joy
Children’s author Jacqueline Wilson joined us at the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital for a special read-along and storytelling Q&A.
Rays of Sunshine Ambassador Oritsé Williams helped spread the joy at Evelina London Children's Hospital, handing out books and activities so every child could take part in the celebrations.
Together, we shared stories, smiles and uplifting moments with children receiving treatment.
See more World Book Day photo highlights
