THIS year s 1Book4Stevenage, as voted for by the public, is Bill Bryson s Notes from a Small Island. The idea of 1Book4Stevenage came from bestselling author Ken Follett, who lives in Knebworth and came across similar schemes while he was on tour in Ameri

THIS year's 1Book4Stevenage, as voted for by the public, is Bill Bryson's Notes from a Small Island.

The idea of 1Book4Stevenage came from bestselling author Ken Follett, who lives in Knebworth and came across similar schemes while he was on tour in America a few years ago.

The dual aim of the project, which is now in its fifth year, is to promote literacy and community spirit through enjoyment of the same book.

It is the only campaign of its kind in the South of England.

Mr Follett said: "1Book4Stevenage turns our town into a gigantic book club."

In Notes from a Small island, American author Bill Bryson takes a tour of Britain to assess what it is he loves so much about the country.

This is the first year people who live, work, or study in Stevenage were asked to vote for their favourite book from a shortlist of five.

The shortlist included First Casualty by Ben Elton, The Lollipop Shoes by Joanne Harris, Starter for Ten by David Nicholls, and The Damned United by David Peace.

Cllr Simon Speller, chairman of 1Book4Stevenage, said: "This year we have done things slightly differently and I have been very encouraged by the response.

"I am sure everyone across Stevenage will enjoy reading Notes from a Small Island and we will be organising a number of events throughout the year to tie in with the book.