Merton Libraries are hosting a range of London themed events to celebrate Cityread next month.

The London-wide month-long celebration of literature is based on Sebastian Faulks’ A Week in December, which offers a satirical look at the capital.

As part of last years Cityread Londoners rediscovered Charles Dickens’ classic Oliver Twist, and it is hoped the events organised for next month will build on 2012s success.

Themed events based on Faulks novel and the history of Merton and London will take place across the borough’s libraries, including transport themed craft sessions, London themed quizzes, a comic book workshop, poetry readings and special themed story time sessions.

Merton Heritage and Local Studies Centre is also hosting two illustrated talks, 'Wimbledon Football Club: An A-Z', taking place at Wimbledon Library and 'From City to Surrey, the story of the London Underground in Merton', which will be hosted at Morden Library.

Cityread aims to promote reading to pleasure, engage new library users and encourage people to explore and celebrate their city’s history.

Cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Nick Draper said: "I intend to start reading A Week in December as soon as I can in preparation for Cityread London 2013.

“I’m really looking forward to the range of events taking place in Merton and across London as part of this city-wide reading initiative.

"I would encourage everyone to explore their city's history through reading and come along to events in Merton and across London."

Author of A Week in December, Sebastian Faulks said: “I’m delighted that A Week in December will be Cityread London’s chosen book for 2013.

"I began the book with the intention of writing a modern Dickensian novel in which London played a key part so it’s great to be following Dickens himself as the Cityread London selection.”

Tickets for the 'From City to Surrey: The Story of the underground in Merton' talk at Morden Library can be booked through the Heritage and Local Studies Centre on 020 8545 3239.

For more information visit merton.gov.uk/libraries.