Reading for Life

Reading for Life is an anthology of poetry and prose fiction that explores the relationship between literature and individual lives. It showcases the impact of literary texts on readers of all backgrounds, including non-specialists and those in struggling communities. The book is the result of a ten-year partnership between the University of Liverpool's Centre for Research into Reading, Literature, and Society (CRILS) and the outreach charity The Reader, which brings serious literature to neglected communities through shared reading.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Reading for Life is a captivating anthology that combines poetry and excerpts from prose fiction, all tied together by a series of captivating case-histories that explore the profound impact of reading on the lives of individuals. Through these narratives, readers are granted an enhanced imaginative access to the works in question, as they witness the profound effects that these literary creations have had on readers of all backgrounds and expertise. The stories unfold as novelists, poets, doctors, teachers, anthologists, and ordinary individuals from diverse settings come together in shared reading groups, finding solace and guidance in the pages of literary texts during times of personal struggle.

This remarkable project is the result of a ten-year partnership between the University of Liverpool's Centre for Research into Reading, Literature, and Society (CRILS) and the outreach charity The Reader. Together, they embark on a mission to bring the power of serious literature to often neglected communities and struggling individuals. Through the vibrant and alive practice of shared reading—aloud and in person—they introduce literature from all ages to these communities, fostering a sense of connection, understanding, and empowerment.

Reading for Life offers a comprehensive exploration of the myriad ways in which reading literature can benefit individuals across different walks of life. It serves as a valuable resource for serious readers in the broader world, as well as scholars engaged in the study of literary studies. Moreover, it holds significance for those who contemplate the therapeutic interactions between literature and life in psychology, medicine, and mental health support settings.

The anthology opens with a foreword by Philip Davis, the director of CRILS, who shares his passion for the transformative power of reading. He highlights the importance of literature in shaping our understanding of the world and in providing solace and guidance during difficult times. Davis emphasizes the significance of the partnership between CRILS and The Reader, which has allowed them to reach communities that have been historically marginalized and underrepresented.

The case-histories that follow are a testament to the profound impact of reading on individuals' lives. Each story unfolds as a unique journey, revealing the transformative power of literature in overcoming personal challenges, fostering empathy, and promoting personal growth. From a young girl who finds solace in the pages of a book during a difficult time in her life to a retired man who discovers a new passion for reading and writing, these stories showcase the universality of the reading experience.

The anthology also includes a range of poetry and prose excerpts that further enrich the reading experience. These pieces capture the essence of the human experience, from the joys of love and friendship to the complexities of life and death. They evoke emotions and provoke thought, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their struggles on a deeper level.

Reading for Life is not just a collection of stories; it is a call to action. It encourages readers to embrace the power of reading and to explore the vast array of literary treasures that exist. It reminds us that reading is not just a solitary activity but a shared experience that can bring people together and create a sense of community.

In conclusion, Reading for Life is a remarkable anthology that celebrates the power of reading and the profound impact it can have on individuals' lives. Through its captivating case-histories and diverse literary excerpts, it offers readers an enhanced imaginative access to the works in question and fosters a deeper understanding of the human experience. This anthology is a testament to the transformative power of literature and the importance of bringing it to communities that have been historically neglected. As we continue to explore the world through the lens of literature, let us remember the words of Philip Davis: "Reading for Life is about the joy of discovery, the pleasure of sharing, and the power of literature to change lives."

Weight: 532g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192871374