More than 156,500 students have participated in the Premier's Reading Challenge since it began in 2008, The Premier, Lara Giddings, said today.

Launching the 2013 Premier's Reading Challenge, Ms Giddings said that it was a great way to promote the importance of reading to students, parents and the wider community.

"Boosting literacy rates amongst our younger generation is a key part of our strategy to improve our educational standards," Ms Giddings said.

"This year one lucky school which registers by March 22 will win a whole-day visit from artist and illustrator Peter Gouldthorpe.

"Peter has illustrated many children's books and has worked with some of Australia's best-known and loved children's authors, including John Marsden, Gary Crew, Corinne Fenton and Paul Jennings.

"The 2013 Premier's Reading Challenge starts on June 11 and runs until August 19 and is open to all students from Prep to Grade 6, including home schooled students.

"To complete the challenge students need to read at least 10 books in 10 weeks, including fiction, non-fiction, cook books and graphic novels.

"A love of reading is one of the most important gifts we can give our children and I'd urge as many schools as possible to register for the Premier's Reading Challenge," Ms Giddings said.

For more information or to register visit: www.premiersreadingchallenge.tas.gov.au