International Literacy Day 

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Would there be a huge hole in your life without books?

We think it is more than obvious that we are beyond passionate about all things literacy and reading here at The Book Resort. If it wasn’t, we hope it is now! Our passion stems from years of reading, writing and researching the knowledge, escapism and pure happiness that books have to offer to their readers. That is why we are The Book Resort and that is also why this year we want to raise awareness about International Literacy Day that takes place on September 8^th.

What is International Literacy Day?

International Literacy Day was founded by UNESCO in 1967. It was created in order to remind people just how important literacy is and that reading capabilities are a basic human right for every human being. Can you believe that today it is estimated that there are over 750 MILLION adults worldwide who have literacy issues or cannot read at all? This seems unfathomable to all of us in our little reading bubbles, but it is the reality of this world. Think about it for just a second. What could you no longer do if you couldn’t read..?

• You couldn’t do your weekly food shop.
• You couldn’t sit your driving test.
• You couldn’t read this blog post.

Why Should We Care?

There is nothing quite like receiving a brand new book in the post once a month that you are certain will be a great read. There is nothing quite like being recommended a book and heading straight to your local book shop to pick it up and there is nothing quite like that feeling of a new book in your hands as you turn that first page. Imagine how you would feel if these opportunities no longer existed for you? For us, there would be a huge hole in our lives without books.

Reading is a luxury and is often taken for granted by each and every one of us. It is very easy to look at reading as an option for people, but what if that option never existed for you in the first place? When we think about reading, books and the euphoric joy opening a brand new book brings to us on a daily basis, it is hard to fathom that for some this basic human right is simply not within their reach.

Whilst we all have the capabilities and resources to pick up a book any time of the day and delve into a new world, it is so important to remember that not everyone has this option. Some individuals, people and societies are quite literally denied the right to read and even to learn. So while we can, let’s all attempt to take full advantage of our privileges and try, on a daily basis, not to take reading for granted.

What Can We Do to Help?

Try to remember that literacy issues and problems are not just far afield. They exist in all communities and corners of the world. Donate your books. Continue to buy and read more books. Encourage those who are facing literacy difficulties to read. Encourage those who are not to read even more! Spread the word about local literacy hubs like book clubs! Share that amazing feeling of accomplishment that you feel when you have finished a book as well as the knowledge and moments of escape it enabled you to have! Maybe you could even write a blog post about it?

Whatever you decide to do, make sure you spread awareness about international literacy day and keep on reading!

We have a special offer at the moment, where you receive a free subscription box if you sign up for a 6 month subscription.  Click here for more information.