BOOK lovers across the county are being encouraged to take up the South West reading passport challenge.

Gloucestershire County Council has joined forces with libraries from across the region for the 2014 passport challenge.

This year readers have four different “worlds” to reflect different genres of literature to choose from.

The aim is to read three or more novels from these worlds before the end of December. Those who complete the challenge and submit three book reviews will be in for the chance to win £150 worth of books, provided by the schemes partners.

Cabinet member with responsibility for libraries Cllr Andrew Gravells said: “This is a great way to encourage people of all ages to pick up a book and try reading something new. I would encourage anyone with a love for literacy or people who are thinking of joining our libraries to get involved and give it a try.”

In addition, two award-winning writers, Adam Nevill and Gareth.L.Powell will visit Gloucester library on Thursday, December 4 to celebrate the reading passport and talk about their journey into print.

Tickets to the event can be obtained via Eventbrite.

Reading passport reviews can be submitted at www.readingpassport.org or taken to a county library. Reviews may be displayed in libraries and on the web site. The competition closes on Tuesday, December 30.

The challenge is open to library members and it’s free to join.

Pop into your local library to pick up your passport and start your journey.