McDonald’s Malaysia nurtures reading with Happy Meal Readers Initiative

To encourage good reading habits among children, McDonald’s Malaysia is offering an all-new book series from Cressida Cowell; the book offerings are part of the Happy Meal Reader programme. Cowell is the author and illustrator for the best selling novel-turned-blockbuster: How to Train Your Dragon.

The books, Treetop Twins Adventures, are exclusive to McDonald’s and will feature 12 stand-alone stories. Cowell is doing illustration and writing duties for both. One book will be available each month and come in both English and Bahasa Malaysia languages. This being the digital era, there is an interactive version as well that is accessible through the Happy Studio App. In this format, families can visit the tales in the book in an immersive way and amplify the experience.

McDonald’s Malaysia Marketing Director, Eugene Lee, believes fostering better reading culture directly supports McDonald’s efforts in bringing families together. ” The Happy Meal Readers programme encourages parents to enjoy quality time with their children through reading. It is through this platform that we hope to instill a life-long love of reading among children,” he added.

This is truly a different take in creating a wholesome environment for families. Instead of another toy range, McDonald’s Malaysia Happy Meal Readers goes for a more educational and intuitive experience.

Of course, this isn’t the first time McDonald’s has been giving out books with its Happy Meals. Previously, books from the Mr Men and Little Miss series have been on offer with McDonald’s Malaysia Happy Meals. Similarly, in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, McDonald’s distributed stories from Roald Dahl.

Text by: Victor Yap