With two snow days for some youngsters already this week, the last few days have been all about the wintry weather.

But today, youngsters will dive into a world of books, as they celebrate the 21st annual World Book Day.

The global initiative is designed to inspire youngsters to fall in love with reading, and usually sees pupils encouraged to dress up as their favourite book character for school.

And in Norwich, two independent businesses are joining forces in the hope that a beloved food can further inspire children into the spirit.

The Book Hive, on London Street, and Brick Pizza, on Market Place, are teaming up for the next three days to give families more time for reading.

MORE: 23 books our readers recommend for World Book Day 2018

The campaign, Make Mine a Margher-reader, will see parents who buy a book at the Book Hive given 20pc off, and another 20pc off at Brick Pizza.

Henry Layte, founder of the Book Hive, said: 'The theme of this year's World Book Day is Share a Story, with a big focus on getting families to read together for 10 minutes a day.

'This is hugely important, but the research we're reading suggests that we have to go a bit further than just raising awareness and championing books. We need to think of ways that books can actually fit into everyday busy lives - or think of ways to make lives less busy, to free up time for reading.

'Dealing with dinner felt like an obvious way to help tired parents out.'

Joe Hedinger, bookseller, said: 'Brick responded to the idea really enthusiastically.

'We hope the promotion will see a few families putting their feet up, enjoying some reading time together, then tucking into some scrumptious slices.'

MORE: World Book Day 2017 - share your pictures of young bookworms

The promotion runs until March 4.

Evidence suggests that children who read for enjoyment daily not only do better in tests, but develop a wider vocabulary and have stronger general knowledge. There are also links between strong literacy and mental wellbeing.

World Book Day is the biggest celebration of its kind, designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading, and celebrated by more than 100 countries.

• To share your pictures of World Book Day, email imagecurators@archant.co.uk