This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Welcome to Today in Books, our daily round-up of literary headlines at the intersection of politics, culture, media, and more.
Most U.S. Adults Read a Book Last Year
There tends to be a lot of hand-wringing about whether American adults read books anymore, and every year, we get a survey or two offering “good” or “bad” news. Here’s the thing: it’s just a number, and reading books is among a billion things people can do with the free time they have. But a recently released survey from Pew Research offers some fascinating insights into the reading habits of American adults. Last year, 75% read at least part of a book (not bad!), print was the preferred format (though audiobooks are on the rise), and few were involved in a book club.
People Are Paying $1,000 to Read Among Strangers
While data may suggest that fewer people are involved in book clubs, that doesn’t mean reading isn’t a social activity. Indeed, the rise of the reading retreats–where people pay to go somewhere and read alongside others seeking time away from their home, work, and other responsibilities with the intent of working through their TBR–is noteworthy. Years before it became trendy to write about reading retreats, I did one with some friends, and it was great. Not everyone can read every day, and the idea of a dedicated chunk of time to spend in community with other readers? It’s smart, and no, you don’t have to pay $1,000 to do it unless you want to (grab some friends, pack a big ole picnic basket, leave the phone at home, and dedicate a beautiful spring weekend to reading in the park!).
Today In Books
Sign up to Today In Books to receive daily news and miscellany from the world of books.
Texas Gives First OK to Required Reading Material List with Bible Material
The Texas State Board of Education gave a preliminary okay to a list of required reading for public school students statewide. The list, pared down from its initial proposal, excluded crucial works by Black authors like Frederick Douglas and Booker T. Washington, as well as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. The list, however, retains several Bible texts. It’s a very white and very old list. There’s not necessarily an issue with states having a list of recommended readings for school students, but as the story here points out, this kind of mandate not only highlights what a group of partisan decision makers think are important but also ignores the fact that mandating such a list of reading actively ignores educator needs to implement such a list. No public input has been sought yet on the list, but it’s worth digging into this great read from a Texas teacher with deep concerns about the list.
The Official Trailer for HUNGER GAMES: SUNRISE ON THE REAPING Is Here
Are you ready to return to the world of The Hunger Games? Then good news. The adaptation of Sunrise on the Reaping will hit theaters November 20, 2026. The story takes place in Panem 24 years before The Hunger Games, beginning on the morning of the Second Quarter Quell. It is the 50th Hunger Games, wherein Haymitch Abernathy is a player.
The comments section is moderated according to our community guidelines. Please check them out so we can maintain a safe and supportive community of readers!