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A Reader Postcard from Somerset

Written by The Reader, 14th November 2018

Earlier this year, we announced the news that there are now over 500 Shared Reading groups running across the UK. Here on the blog, we’ll regularly shine the spotlight on those groups taking place up and down the country each week. Our journey starts in lovely Somerset

There are currently nine Shared Reading groups in Somerset which are delivered in partnership with Somerset County Council. The groups are led by seven dedicated Volunteer Reader Leaders, one of whom has been volunteering with The Reader for eight years, and it’s thanks to their hard work and commitment that the reading revolution has grown successfully across the county.

One volunteer recently told us:

"Group members tell us how the group is the highlight of their week and how they find it a very enjoyable way of being with people and being able to contribute something. Many often comment on how they really enjoy the group because it allows them to hear all the different points of view that come out in discussion, rather than just their own perspective."

If you're interested in joining a Shared Reading group in Somerset, you can find a group near you on our map or email southwest@thereader.org.uk.

Melanie, a Volunteer Reader Leader in Somerset who was honoured for her services to the community last year, shared her experiences with us as part of Volunteer Week back in May. Read her full story here.

"So why am I still doing this after two and a half years? Simply because I love it, and I cannot imagine anything I would rather do on a Monday. I’ve had such pleasure sharing my love of literature with the group members, and such satisfaction from the trust they place in each other, and in me, as we explore stories together."

Or if you'd like to know more about volunteering in your area you can visit our website or email volunteer@thereader.org.uk.

Recommended Reads: Somerset

We've been browsing our Reader bookshelves for some literary postcards from the beautiful county of Somerset and here are some of our favourites:

  • Persuasion by Jane Austen
  • The History of Tom Jones by Henry Fielding
  • Lorna Doone by Richard Doddridge Blackmore

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