The Funday Times Returns for Special One-Off Edition to Boost Reading
In a nostalgic move to inspire young readers, The Sunday Times is reviving its cherished children's supplement, The Funday Times, for a special one-off print edition on March 1, 2026. This revival is a key component of The Sunday Times Get Britain Reading campaign, which has garnered support from renowned authors including Michael Morpurgo, Anne Fine, Jacqueline Wilson, Michael Rosen, and Julia Donaldson.
Design and Historical Significance
The front cover for this special edition has been creatively designed by children's author and comic creator Jamie Smart, known for his popular series Bunny vs Monkey. Originally launched in 1989 as a weekly children's supplement within The Sunday Times, The Funday Times was printed until 2006, becoming a staple for young audiences with its engaging mix of news, features, puzzles, and educational content.
Smart expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The Funday Times was a coveted treasure when I was at school, a mystical tome of weekly comics all the kids gathered round to read. It's vital that we offer children only the best, most brilliantest, most amazingest original comics and stories, and The Funday Times is such an important part of that."
Exclusive Content and Campaign Highlights
This 12-page edition promises a wealth of exclusive content aimed at fostering a love for reading among children. Young readers can look forward to:
- Extracts from new books, such as Katie Kirby's upcoming The Seriously Epic Holiday of Lottie Brooks.
- World Book Day's new Roald Dahl-inspired adventure, Chaos At The Chocolate Factory.
- A new poem by children's author and poet Rashmi Sirdeshpande.
- A short story competition initiated by Michael Morpurgo, who has written the first line.
- A guide by Matt Oldfield, author of the Unbelievable Football series, highlighting players to watch at this summer's World Cup.
The supplement was historically known for its big-name contributors and popular comic strips like Asterix, Thunderbirds, and The Simpsons, making it a beloved resource for educational and entertainment purposes.
Editorial Perspective and Broader Impact
Ben Taylor, editor of The Sunday Times, shared his personal connection to the supplement, saying, "Many of us got our first taste of reading via the pages of The Funday Times, which is why we've brought it back for a special edition." He recalled his own childhood experiences with books and comics, emphasizing the supplement's role in nurturing early reading habits.
This initiative underscores the importance of providing high-quality, original comics and stories to children, with The Funday Times being celebrated alongside other stalwarts like The Phoenix comic and The Beano. The special edition will be available for purchase with The Sunday Times, aiming to reignite interest in reading and support literacy efforts across Britain.
