Photo: Contributed

A book reading by a local author will kick off the fifth annual Culture Days in Penticton Friday night.

Culture Days is a national celebration of arts and culture which began in 2009. It was inspired by the success and impact of Journees de la Culture, held in Quebec since 1997.

Penticton's celebration will feature an anti-bullying workshop and book reading by local author Yam Cooper at the Leir House. 

His new book 'The Story of Bill and his House on the Hill' was inspired with the author's experiences with war and bullying when he grew up. 

"This story has many layers. With each reading, depending on their age, life skills and experience, the reader can discover the one that opens their mind or sparks an important lesson for life," says Cooper. "The book touches on many topics in a fun and engaging way. I hope to reach children before they become bullied or bullies, as Bill's story can positively influence their direction in life."

Culture Days raises the awareness, accessibility, participation and engagement of Canadians in the arts and cultural life of their communities.

With the support of volunteer groups at the national, provincial and local levels, hundreds of thousands of artists, cultural workers, organizations and groups, mobilize to host free participatory public activities that take place in hundreds of cities and towns throughout the country.

The event runs from Sept 26 to 28.