You're invited to the #ReadingHour

01 April 2023

Everyone is invited to join us at 7pm on 23 April for the #ReadingHour! You can do anything you want related to books: read alone, read with or to someone, or even call a friend to chat about books and share recommendations.

“I loved the feeling that there would be lots of other people reading, at the same time as me. It gave me a sense of community and was comforting in a troubled time.”

1 in 3 people in England don’t regularly read for pleasure, but we know the benefits that reading brings to our lives. We want to share this more people, encouraging everyone to set aside time in our busy lives to read more. Why should you read?

  • 19% of readers say that reading stops them from feeling lonely
  • Regular readers for pleasure have report fewer feelings of stress and depression than non-readers, and stronger feelings of relaxation from reading than from watching television or engaging with technology intensive activities
  • Adults who read for just 30 minutes a week are 20% more likely to report greater life satisfaction

You can read a print book, e-book, or listen to an audiobook, and it doesn’t matter what you read. Pick up the book that you’ve been meaning to read for years, or borrow a book from your local library’s digital lending services (sign-up now if you’re not already a member). If you’re looking for suggestions, our booklist has something for everyone, including fiction, non-fiction, Quick Reads and books for young adults. If you’re really stuck, just tweet us at @WorldBookNight and we’d be happy to provide a recommendation!

“It was good to have the excuse to sit down for an hour to read and not feel guilty about it.”

News

Get on the Road to Reading

A little reading can go a long way. It can connect us to others, spark curiosity, boost our self-esteem and support o... read more »

Get on the Road to Reading

Impact

Right Book, Right Time

We each have a book that’s had a profound effect on us. Find out what has been the right book at the right time for s... read more »

Right Book, Right Time

Resources

Road to Reading activities

Looking for more to do during your Road to Reading? Download or print this card and cross off the activities as you go. read more »

Road to Reading activities