Stormzy has described reading as a “superpower” while supporting a campaign designed to encourage individuals who do not identify as readers to explore literature. The musician’s publishing imprint, #Merky Books, which operates under Penguin, is releasing one of the six Quick Reads for 2024, titled Hunger Pains by Derek Owusu. This initiative aims to provide short, accessible books tailored for nonreaders, lapsed readers, and those with short attention spans, as well as neurodivergent individuals.
The Quick Reads initiative, managed by The Reading Agency, has been promoting reading for over 20 years. Hunger Pains will be available for a promotional price of £1 in April 2024, alongside five other titles. Stormzy highlighted the transformative power of books in his own life, stating, “Reading helped me when I was young and it still does today. Books have the power to carry you through life.”
Empowering Readers with Accessible Literature
Stormzy expressed pride in Owusu’s participation in the Quick Reads campaign, saying, “His words will reach the people who need them most.” The rapper encouraged anyone who typically does not read to try a Quick Read, emphasizing, “Reading really is a superpower.” He noted the similarities between music and literature, stating, “Music and books are both about finding your voice. We are all made of stories – they define who we are.”
Owusu’s 128-page novel focuses on Ray, a fitness enthusiast whose intense dedication leads him to a perilous online community for support, while his partner Temi, a journalist, observes with concern. Owusu noted his personal journey with reading, stating, “Having never read a book until the age of 24, I wish I had come across Quick Reads sooner.” He praised the initiative for being accessible and affordable, allowing both new and returning readers to rediscover the joy of reading.
“I’m excited to be part of their legacy and to add my voice to something that helps people feel confident enough to pick up a book and look forward to spending time with it,” he added. Owusu is known for his previous works, including That Reminds Me and Losing the Plot, and serves as the editor of Safe: 20 Ways to be a Black Man in Britain Today.
Expanding Access to Literature
This year marks a significant expansion for the Quick Reads initiative, as it will introduce audiobooks for the first time. Additionally, The Reading Agency plans to distribute half a million Quick Reads books to prisons throughout the UK. All titles undergo a stringent accessibility review, ensuring they are suitable for adults working to rebuild their reading confidence.
This year’s Quick Reads lineup includes titles such as The Last Bench by Carmel Harrington, The Girl in the Picture by Rachel Hore, The Woman Next Door by Louise Jensen, Sweet Charity by Rosie Goodwin, and Cell One by Leye Adenle. The initiative seeks to break down barriers to reading and foster a love for literature among diverse audiences.
