Blokes vs Books

Men don’t read. True or false? Or do they read more non-fiction and product manuals than works of fiction? Maybe they don’t realise how powerful it is for kids to see their Dad reading? Or that reading is a brain food with many proven neurological benefits.

According to research conducted by Read NZ Te Pou Muramura in 2018, the numbers of Kiwi men reading had dropped. This led to a group of ‘reluctant readers’ putting their heads together and coming up with the idea for Blokes vs Books.

A joint initiative between Read NZ (formerly the Book Council) and the NZ Society of Authors, the aim of Blokes vs Books is to help men and their whānau help themselves by building a love of reading as a lifelong habit. Why?

1. It’s a way to have fun as a family, sharing stories or just relaxing.
2. Children want to do what their parents do.
3. A way to spend quiet time with yourself.

Short, light-hearted interviews of well-known New Zealand men, on how books and reading have shaped their lives will be released on social media over one week. From Shortland Street actor Jay Kiriona to comedian Leigh Hart, the men share their reading habits and favourite books from the comfort of their living rooms.

Check it out!

Follow the campaign on Facebook.