The summer holidays are a magical opportunity to find the time and space to read or listen to a good book – and share the joys of reading with others.
From buying book vouchers to chatting about your favourite reads with friends and family, we’ve compiled a few ideas on how to celebrate reading this holiday season.
Give the gift of reading
Looking for an affordable and thoughtful gift option this Christmas? From crime novels to graphic novels, cookbooks to children’s books, there’s something for everyone at your local bookshop.
Not sure what to buy? Ask your local bookseller for a recommendation, or consider buying a book voucher instead – vouchers are a great way to engage others in browsing and choosing books they’ll love for themselves.
Embrace the holiday down-time
With busy school and work schedules cleared, the holidays are a perfect opportunity to find the time and space to re-discover a love of reading.
Reading is proven to help us relax – reducing stress, providing comfort, and helping us get a good night’s sleep.
So whether it’s listening to an audiobook in the car as a family, or taking time out to read a novel by the pool, let books help you wind down these holidays.
“Books are portals to different places, countries and times and, like any returned traveller, I always finish a book feeling wiser for it, my mind stronger, my heart bigger.”
– Award-winning Australian author, Hannah Kent
Talk about books with your friends and family
For many people, the holiday season is a special time of connecting with family and friends. Use this time as an opportunity to talk about books and reading – whether it’s sharing a book you’ve loved recently or asking for recommendations from others.
Read with children
The holidays are a great opportunity to get some special shared reading time in.
Reading with children has a range of benefits, from supporting children’s brain development and learning, to increasing family bonding. It’s also just really fun – with 86% of children saying they enjoy it, and mainly because it provides a special time with parents.
With the social media ban being implemented in Australia, we’ve compiled some top tips for supporting children and young people to read.
“Reading allows children to share experiences that are not their own, and has the power to transform lives one word and one page at a time.”
– 2023-25 Children’s Laureate, Sally Rippin
Visit your local library or bookstore
While away an afternoon at your local library or bookstore these holidays, or head along to a range of storytime and author events. Your local bookstore or librarian are also a great source or recommendations if you’re looking for your next great summer read!
Not able to get there in person? Library apps like Libby and BorrowBox can be a good way to browse for recommendations.
Spread the word
Whether you’re an individual or organisation, as you wind down for the year, share your reading list, or messages about the joys and benefits of reading.
We’ve also compiled some social media tiles you can share online with your networks!
