One child in five is now unable to identify his or her favourite book according to research done by the Prince of Wales Arts and Kids Foundation. And the national literacy strategy is already being blamed for making reading into an academic subject rather than firing children's imaginations.
As Ladybirds' Key Words scheme celebrates its 40th anniversary, Woman's Hour looks at its success and why its unlikely stars, Peter and Jane, continue to be popular with parents and children all over the world.
Jenni is joined by the former Chief Inspector of Schools, Chris Woodhead and independent literary specialist, Sue Palmer to discuss the changing fashions in teaching children to read.
