Stormzy Backs Quick Reads Campaign as Half a Million Books Head to UK Prisons
Rap superstar Stormzy has thrown his weight behind the Quick Reads campaign for 2026, calling reading a "superpower" as the initiative — celebrating its 20th anniversary — prepares to distribute half a million books to prisons across the UK and launch audiobooks for the first time.
The campaign, run by The Reading Agency, coincides with the UK's National Year of Reading and aims to tackle a "reading crisis" in which nearly half of UK adults do not identify as readers, by producing short, accessible books designed for non-readers, lapsed readers, and neurodivergent individuals.
Background
Quick Reads was founded in 2006 with the mission of making reading accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or reading confidence. Over the past 20 years, the initiative has distributed more than 5 million books, collaborated with over 30 publishers, and generated more than 6 million library loans. The programme has been supported by a succession of high-profile authors and celebrities who share a passion for literacy.
Key Developments
Stormzy's publishing imprint, #Merky Books (part of Penguin Random House), is releasing one of the six Quick Reads titles for 2026: "Hunger Pains" by Derek Owusu. Stormzy expressed pride in Owusu's participation, stating that his words will reach those who need them most. He described reading as a "superpower" that has helped him throughout his life.
For its 20th anniversary, Quick Reads has announced ambitious expansion plans. For the first time, all six titles will be available as audiobooks, making them accessible to an even wider audience. Half a million copies will be gifted to prisons across the UK — a significant initiative that recognises the transformative power of reading for people in the criminal justice system.
The campaign centres around World Book Night on 23 April, when thousands of Quick Reads titles will be distributed free to libraries, prisons, community organisations, charities, and food banks nationwide. The Reading Agency's research indicates that consistent reading can significantly improve mental health, social mobility, and overall life prospects.
Why It Matters
Stormzy's involvement brings the Quick Reads campaign to a new and younger audience, helping to break down the stigma around reading difficulties and encouraging people who might not consider themselves readers to give books a chance. The prison distribution initiative is particularly significant, recognising that access to books can play a vital role in rehabilitation and reducing reoffending.
What's Next
World Book Night on 23 April will see the free distribution of Quick Reads titles across the UK. A special Quick Read title and a major new partnership are also expected to be announced on the day.
Read more at The Guardian.
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