Project title:
Reading4Normal Book Club: an online reading group scheme
“Support from SMT will help set up the book club, as well as promotion and network development via a website and social media.”
Researcher:
Dr Alison Waller
School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Centre for Equality, Justice and Social Change
University of Roehampton
Project proposal:
The Reading4Normal Book Club is an online reading-group scheme that aims to bring together young readers to discuss young adult (YA) novels. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on the mental wellbeing of many young people, who have had to navigate a ‘new normal’ and find different ways to connect with each other. This impact initiative recognises the value of reading for teens who have struggled with isolation and disruption. It provides the structure and space for them to reflect on their own routines, relationships, and environments through the lens of fiction. It also offers a valuable way for keen readers to make connections with other individuals at a similar life stage across the UK.
The initiative builds on existing research funded by The British Academy. It would facilitate a nine-month Reading4Normal Book Club at six schools (two in the Wandsworth area linked to four across the UK), including an author event. It would support the creation of a website and social media programme. It will therefore have an impact on youth local to Roehampton and nationwide. It will also work alongside Cheltenham Festival’s ‘Reading Teachers: Reading Pupils’ programme to provide development for teachers or other educational professionals.
Photo by Sean Kong on Unsplash
Themes:
Enabling transformational change
Encouraging the arts
Seeking justice
Promoting wellbeing
Nurturing rooted communities
Thinking globally
Amplifying voices