Research conducted by the charity The Reading Agency has found that half of UK adults don't read regularly, and nearly a quarter of young adults admit they have 'never' been readers due to a lack of time, poor attention spans, and digital distractions. To address these figures, The Reading Agency plans to focus initially on access, offering its Quick Reads (short books by bestselling authors) for £1 at bookshops and lending them out at libraries.

The charity aims to encourage a shift in attitudes, reigniting younger audiences' excitement for reading. Lorraine Kelly, broadcaster and ambassador for The Reading Agency, commented, “As an author, I’ve seen firsthand how stories can change lives, spark imaginations, and create connections. The Reading Agency is dedicated to helping every adult access these benefits to create a society where everyone can thrive.”

As the fast pace of contemporary life makes it challenging to find moments of calm, and as technological advancements heighten expectations of immediacy and reduce patience, the educational and wellness benefits of reading are being drowned out. However, for some, reading has seen a revival, with a third of Britons naming reading a book as their preferred form of escapism, and UK Gen Zers leading the resurgence of book clubs to build communities. With an increasing appreciation for slower forms of media and in-person connections, publishers can attract more readers by highlighting how reading positively contributes to well-being as a form of self-care and escapism.