The National Year of Reading: Reviving Young People's Love for Literature

Recent findings from the National Literacy Trust (NLT) indicate a significant decline in reading enjoyment among children and young people in the UK. In 2025, only 19% of 8-18-year-olds reported reading something daily in their free time, marking a 36% decrease in enjoyment levels since 2005. This trend is concerning as it coincides with an increase in social media usage, which detracts from the immersive experience of reading.

The Guardian

In response to this decline, 2026 has been designated the National Year of Reading, a UK-wide initiative supported by the government and led by the NLT. The campaign aims to distribute 72,000 new books to children in need, focusing on diverse interests ranging from history to sports and art. The goal is to rekindle a passion for reading among young people by providing literature that resonates with their personal interests.

The Guardian

Katy Hessel, an advocate for integrating art into education, emphasizes the importance of making reading engaging for young audiences. Her new book, *The Story of Art Without Men: An Illustrated Guide to Amazing Women Artists*, aims to inspire young readers through interactive content and beautiful illustrations. The book encourages readers to explore art history while creating their own artistic expressions, thus fostering a deeper connection to both literature and art.

The Guardian

Hessel's approach mirrors that of renowned artist Georgia O’Keeffe, who was known for her inclusive teaching style. O’Keeffe believed in making art accessible to all, regardless of background or prior knowledge. Hessel aims to emulate this philosophy, encouraging educators to use her book as a resource to integrate art into their classrooms effectively.

The Guardian

Hessel advocates for young people to not only read about art but also experience it firsthand in museums, which offer free entry to their permanent collections in the UK. She suggests that exploring art history can broaden young people's perspectives, connecting them to their favorite authors or musicians through visual art. This multifaceted approach aims to engage families in shared activities that promote both reading and artistic appreciation.

The Guardian

As the National Year of Reading unfolds, Hessel hopes it will be a transformative year for young people, allowing them to rediscover the joy of reading and the wonders of art. She believes that books and art stimulate the imagination, teaching valuable lessons about the world and oneself. Ultimately, Hessel envisions a future where the human imagination remains a powerful force, unchallenged by technology.

The Guardian

• “I enjoyed teaching people who had no particular interest in art.” — Georgia O’Keeffe

The Guardian