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Take 10 to Read

digital graphics_T10 2026 MAIN

Whatever you're into, take 10 to read into it

Take 10 to Read is a National Literacy Trust campaign to increase reading for pleasure by promoting the wellbeing benefits of reading.

First developed by Read Manchester in 2018, this campaign is now promoted by the National Literacy Trust across the UK, encouraging people of all ages to drop everything and read for 10 minutes at 10am on 10 October for World Mental Health Day.

Why? Life is busy and it isn’t always easy to find time for yourself.

Reading can help you relax, boost your mood and find connection – and you don't have to read a book. You could escape into the post-match analysis of Saturday’s football game, an interview with your favourite actor, DIY hacks or even recipes. Reading something that interests you can transport you away from day-to-day life.

In the National Year of Reading, the message is simple: whatever you're into, take 10 to read into it.

Join our GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ attempt

On Thursday 8 October, the National Literacy Trust and the British Council will aim to set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most people reading online in 12 hours.

Sign up to be part of the record-breaking event
Teens and children look at a comic book (cropped image)

Other ways to get involved!

  • Support your pupils and students to Take 10, inspiring them to keep reading for enjoyment every day at school and at home.
    Learn more
  • Support your staff, colleagues their families and your community to Take 10 every day to boost their mood.
    Learn more
  • Sharing a book with a child is fun. It's a time for affection, laughing and talking together. And it can also give children a head start in life by helping them become lifelong readers.
    Learn more

Our research

Our latest research which explores children and young people's reading in 2026 shows the power of reading to boost our wellbeing. Almost two-thirds of children and young people aged 8 to 18 who enjoy reading said that they read because it relaxed them, and more than half said it helped them feel better when they are stressed.

Reading can help everyone and is a great way to:

  • Relax, unwind and boost your mood

  • Connect with your interests and other people

  • Improve memory and concentration

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