6:48am UK, Sunday December 19, 2004

A book-writing kit for children has proved a massive hit - dispelling the myth that youngsters no longer want to read.

More than 40,000 My First Novel packs have been snapped up since it went on sale at supermarket chain Sainsbury's in the first week of December.

Kids want to be the next JK Rowling

It has quickly become the chain's best-selling children's gift - even beating Bratz toys, this season's must-have toy.

The kit, aimed at seven to 12-year-olds, is part of an exclusive range at Sainsbury's developed with top-selling children's author Jacqueline Wilson.

In the pack, priced £5.99, is a book of tips from Ms Wilson on writing a novel, from making-up a plot through to choosing the characters.

Youngsters also get a book in which to write their ideas and a series of fun stickers.

Sainsbury's say demand for the kit has been so strong it has had to fly in extra supplies from China.

Tim Bugbird, product developer at Sainsbury's, said: "This proves that there is a new generation of bright young British authors just waiting to emerge.

"It also proves that, contrary to public opinion, thousands of children love reading and writing - so much so that many are taking the first steps towards writing their very first novel."