Celebrities and authors are urging the public to set aside their phones and engage in a national reading event tonight as part of World Book Night on April 23. The National Year of Reading is promoting the #ReadingHour initiative, encouraging individuals to embrace the joy of reading from 7pm to 8pm.

This designated time aligns with William Shakespeare’s birthday and the UNESCO International Day of the Book, making it a significant occasion for book enthusiasts. Prominent figures like Richard Osman, Adam Kay, Dermot O’Leary, Adele Parks, Ann Cleeves, and Ian Rankin are championing the cause, with additional support from Fern Britton, Paterson Joseph, Sathnam Sanghera, and George the Poet.

Richard Osman emphasized the invaluable gifts that books offer, including new perspectives, peace, and joy, asserting that reading serves as a powerful escape in today’s chaotic world. The initiative is led by The Reading Agency, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility to literature, especially for those lacking confidence or resources.

The essence of the #ReadingHour is its flexibility, allowing participants to choose any book, format, or setting. Spotify has collaborated with the Quick Reads program to provide free audiobooks, catering to individuals with time constraints or preferences for audio content. Spotify Premium users can access a vast library of audiobooks to discover stories that resonate with them.

The National Year of Reading aims to modernize reading as a social activity aligned with personal interests, countering the notion that reading is a formal or outdated task. By partaking in the #ReadingHour from 7pm to 8pm on April 23, individuals can join a nationwide movement that celebrates reading as a contemporary and enriching experience, offering a moment of respite from daily distractions.