Give the gift of reading to those who might not have access this Christmas
Getting cosy on the sofa and losing yourself in a good book is one of the small pleasures in life many of us relish. This year especially, being able to ‘escape’ the never-ending news cycle and the four walls surrounding you through the power of story has been something of a life-line for many.
I set a goal of reading 15 books this year and am currently 22 books deep. Filling the gaps where socialising and commuting used to be, reading has become a solace, allowing me to connect with something outside of my surroundings. But it’s not something everyone has equal access to.
Books cost money and, sadly, many libraries and charity shops have been closed for much of the year. Seeing a need to share the gift of reading with more people, Bookshop UK and Penguin have teamed up. When you buy any book on this list between 16 November and 21 December, Penguin will donate a book where it’s most needed.
Not everyone has equal access to reading. So we are proud to be working with Penguin on this:
— Bookshop UK (@bookshop_org_UK) November 16, 2020
Penguin will donate a book to foodbanks and other local good causes when you buy a book on https://t.co/BWc7z1mlYb this Christmas.
It begins with a book: https://t.co/ZOoX3h36jl pic.twitter.com/FwSvS8tITg
Working with Neighbourly, the books will get into the hands of grassroots good causes across the country, including homeless shelters, food banks and community centres.
With 32 books to choose from, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you want to learn more about the inner workings of Barack Obama, get your hands on some tasty recipes or pick something up for the kids, there’s bound to be a book for you (I’ve got my eye on ‘The Lost Spells’ by Robert McFarlane and Jackie Morris).
Originating in the US, Bookshop launched in the UK on 2 November to roaring success. With a mission of supporting local, independent bookshops, the online retailer gives away over 75% of their profit margin to stores, publications and authors. A fellow B-Corp, Bookshop aims to strengthen the “fragile ecosystem and margins around bookselling” by keeping local bookshops at the core of our culture and communities.
Getting back into the reading habit
If you find it difficult to carve out time to read, you’re certainly not alone. The trick is to find a book you’re really excited about. A book that winks at you from the shelf, begging for its pages to be turned. Not sure where to start? Take a look at our top tips for getting back into the reading habit.
Book inspiration
Sharing book recommendations is a favourite pastime here at Happiful and we have several lists to help you find a book that speaks to you:
- Interested in mental health? Pick a book from these 20 greatest mental health reads.
- Looking for some inspiration and motivation? Then look no further than these 12 books, including fiction and non-fiction.
- Keen to reduce your stress levels? Our list of five stress-reducing reads has you covered.
- Want something for the little ones? May we direct your attention to our list of children book series’ that teach the power of acceptance.
Hopefully this will help ignite a passion for stories and encourage you to give the gift of reading to others. Happy reading.
