They have helped to boost the fortunes of the book industry and launch literary stars – now Richard and Judy are aiming to work their magic by getting youngsters to read.

The former daytime TV hosts are to launch their own children’s book club to boost young people’s enthusiasm for the printed word, as well as helping parents.

Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan have teamed up with WH Smith and reading charity Booktrust to launch the scheme, designed to encourage an appreciation of books.

Organisers have chosen classic and contemporary books to engage the young readers, as well as finding titles which adults should enjoy reading to their children.

The list includes a book by Norwegian writer Jo Nesbo, whose book The Snowman became a best-seller after being included in the titles for the adult version of their book club. Mr Nesbo’s book Doctor Proctor’s Fart Powder is included alongside The Wombles by late writer Elisabeth Beresford.

The books are included in a “fluent reader” category, and the club also has “read together” and “read yourself” sections.

To launch the club, the former This Morning hosts have been transformed into cartoon characters by respected children’s illustrator Nick Diggory for the scheme’s logo.

Ms Finnigan said: “Reading from an early age is something that we always encouraged with our own children and we feel very strongly that this addition to the Book Club is an important and exciting one.

“Getting children to engage with their favourite books and share their thoughts with friends is a great way to enjoy books and we hope that we can help give parents the suggestions they need to get the most out of the amazing stories that are out there.”

Richard and Judy launched their club last autumn, and their first choice Sister by Rosamund Lupton became the retailer’s fastest-selling title by a debut author.They had previously helped numerous writers to huge success by tipping their works during the TV version of the club. It became a springboard to huge sales.