1. Connecting Learners & the Six Book Challenge

2. What is the Six Book Challenge? Developed by the Reading Agency The aims: to encourage people to read six books over a period of six months To foster a reading culture in the workplace Target groups: Reluctant readers Less confident readers People who are “bored” with reading

3. We collected books from staff and friends

4. We also offered the Quick Reads series – to encourage reluctant or less confident readers to take part.

5. Nicola at the Connecting Learners Project held monthly “Swap Shop” sessions. These were supported by Kirsty - ULR

6. Around 50 staff signed up to the challenge at Community Lives!

7. We asked: “What did you like best about the challenge?” We talked about the books and swapped them – making you want to read others Finding a book a bit different to what I would normally read and enjoying it immensely Reflecting on my thoughts about the books I have read and keeping a log. I wouldn’t even try to remember every book I have ever read!

10. Successes.... One member of staff read 21 books! For one member of staff – it was the first book they had ever read. Brilliant!

11. I chose books that I wouldn’t usually read..... It’s great to discuss books with colleagues and to be involved in something of mutual interest. I can’t wait for the next one! The Quick Reads were brilliant. Different themes – and something for everyone I enjoyed going to the swap shop days and comparing notes A good opportunity to read different books – and the short Quick Reads were enjoyable

12. We asked: “What did you think about the Quick Reads series?” “I chose Quick Reads so that I wouldn’t be under pressure in my busy life. They are just enough to have some “me time” before I sleep. The challenge provides some encouragement to read more often/regularly!”

13. Readers said they enjoyed “Jack & Jill” From the Quick Reads Series... This was the first book I have ever finished. I am very pleased and took two more books to read

14. “Bloody Valentine” – James Patterson Good story line – easy to follow and read short chapters. James Patterson always keeps you on the edge of your seat! Ssh! Secret... James Patterson did not write this! A ghost writer was involved...

15. We also learned to give negative criticism... “Strangers On The 16:02” – from the Quick Reads series. “It was a slow start with a mixture if well- written characters. But it had an abrupt ending. It was almost like someone had torn out the last 10 pages...” “Started to read “Life’s Too Short” – but found the stories repetitive. Also started to read Wendy Holden’s “Pastures New” – but didn’t like the style of writing”

16. We celebrated our success at a special prize giving event... Congratulations to Sandra Jones (Personnel) – who won the £20 Gift Voucher in our Prize Draw...!

17. We were pleased to introduce our guest speaker – David Kendall of the Reading Agency

18. We were delighted to meet local author Catrin Collier Catrin also signed copies of her Quick Reads books and told us about some of the stories that had inspired her novels.

19. What Next...? “I want some nice “holiday reads” for my two weeks off work. I aim to read at least four full length books whilst laying on the beach!” “Can we start a reading circle at work...?” “Can’t wait to do it again!”

20. Let’s do it again in 2012...!