Hay Festival Launches The Pleasure List Campaign to Boost Reading in the UK

The Hay Festival has initiated The Pleasure List campaign as part of the National Year of Reading 2026, aiming to address the declining literacy rates in the United Kingdom. This initiative seeks to gather recommendations for the most engaging books to encourage adults to read for pleasure. Stephen Fry, the president of the Hay Festival, emphasized the urgency of this campaign, stating that fewer people in Britain are reading for enjoyment, which he described as a "dying breed." The campaign invites the public to submit their favorite books, with the goal of creating a list that can inspire even the most reluctant readers.

Hay Festival launches The Pleasure List for National Year of Reading with Stephen FryThe Guardian

The National Year of Reading 2026 was announced by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson in July 2025, in response to alarming statistics indicating a sharp decline in reading among both children and adults. In November 2025, the education committee launched an inquiry into this decline, highlighting the need for a collective effort to promote reading. Phillipson remarked, “This can’t be just a government mission. It needs to be a national one. So, it’s time for all of us to play our part, put our phones down and pick up a book.”

The Guardian

The Pleasure List campaign will collect book recommendations through a public call-out, allowing participants to enter a draw to win a collection of books for a community space of their choice. The final selection of books will be revealed at the Hay Festival 2026, scheduled for May 21 to 31. The festival will also feature contributions from notable authors such as Bernardine Evaristo, Lea Ypi, Samira Ahmed, and David Olusoga, who will share their recommendations throughout the year.

The Guardian

While the campaign has garnered support, some critics argue that simply promoting reading may not address the underlying issues contributing to declining literacy rates. Concerns have been raised about accessibility to books and the role of digital distractions in diminishing reading habits.

The Guardian

Stephen Fry stated, “Fewer and fewer people in Britain are reading for pleasure and we want to change that.” He expressed hope that The Pleasure List would serve as a joyful starting point for those hesitant to engage with literature. Julie Finch, CEO of the Hay Festival, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the campaign's goal to provide a welcoming entry into reading.

The Guardian

The Hay Festival plans to unveil the final list of recommended books during the festival in May 2026, alongside a full program of events to promote reading. The campaign will continue to engage the public through social media and community events leading up to the festival.

Hay Festival launches The Pleasure List for National Year of Reading with Stephen Fry

• “Fewer and fewer people in Britain are reading for pleasure and we want to change that.” — Stephen Fry, President of Hay Festival

The Guardian

• “This can’t be just a government mission. It needs to be a national one. So, it’s time for all of us to play our part, put our phones down and pick up a book,” — Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary

The Guardian

• “The Pleasure List “will offer a joyful starting point to help people on their reading journeys”.” — Julie Finch, CEO of Hay Festival

The Guardian