As a follow up to World Book Night [23 April], the Annan Quick Reads Group is giving away books.
World Book Night is run by the Reading Agency, a national charity that inspires people to become confident and enthusiastic readers, “because everything changes when we read”.
World Book Night aims to encourage people into reading and the focus is on gifting books to those who don’t read regularly, for whatever reason.
Statistics show that 76% of adults say that reading improves their lives and makes them feel good.
The impact assessment from the 2017 campaign reported that 54% of recipients had read more since receiving their book.
There are 26 different titles this year and the book that the Annan Group is giving out is ‘At My Mother’s Knee…and Other Low Joints’ by Paul O’Grady
It’s described as “A brilliantly evoked, hilarious and often moving tale of gossip in the back yard, bragging in the corner shop, and slanging matches on the front doorstep, populated by larger-than-life characters with hearts of gold and tongues as sharp as razors.”
The Annan group met recently and has decided to give the books to local organisations, including Kate’s Kitchen, Annan Day Centre, and Support In Mind. A couple of copies will also be given to Annan Library.
There are only a few copies still needing a home, so if you know of someone who would benefit from receiving this free book, get in touch with Alison Murgatroyd at Annan Town Hall, e: [email protected]
Councillor Jeff Leaver, chair of the Children, Young People and Lifelong Learning [CYPLL] committee, said: “Reading is a proven way to improve literacy, increase confidence and wellbeing, and create conversations. Getting books out into the community will encourage a love of reading and inspire others to get involved in lifelong learning.”
Councillor Ros Surtees, vice chair, said: “As an inclusive council it’s important that we encourage equality of opportunity. These books are reaching individuals and groups who might not be regular readers. This will encourage reading for enjoyment, with all the benefits this can bring to individuals, families and their community.”
The Quick Reads Group meets on the first Friday of every month in the Meeting Room of the Victoria Halls. For more information contact Alison Murgatroyd.
The group is currently reading ‘Clean Break’ by Tammy Cohen and will be discussing it and other books over a coffee on Friday 4 May, from 12 noon to 2pm. Come along.
Quick Reads are just that – short books for adults who are new to reading, want to try a different author, or are simply wanting a quick read.
