A tasty way to get more people into reading

A campaign blending the joy of reading with the love of food is set to launch in Bradford.

The Big Tasty Read is a collaboration between the BBC and the Reading Agency charity, which works to promote reading in communities.

The campaign, launched as part of the City of Culture celebrations, will include a curated food-themed booklist, as well as workshops and book clubs at libraries.

Food writer and BBC MasterChef judge Grace Dent will attend the opening event at St George's Hall later, and said she hoped to inspire people to rediscover their "appetite for reading".

She said: "Reading and eating are two of life's greatest pleasures - both acts of discovery, comfort and joy.

"Through this campaign, I hope to inspire people across the UK to rediscover the appetite for reading that exists in all of us, and to recognise that stories, like memorable meals, have the power to bring us together and transform our lives."

Nisha Katona, founder of the Mowgli Street Food restaurant chain, is also one of the ambassadors for the campaign.

She said: "Food is one of the most powerful storytellers we have.

"Food carries history, heritage and heart.

"Books and food have both shaped my life, and I'm thrilled to help bring communities together through the joy of reading and sharing."

As well as reading lists, the public will be invited to share food memories and recipes on social media during the summer.

Reading Agency research indicates half of adults do not read regularly, with the campaign aiming to inspire more to pick up a book.

The charity's CEO Karen Napier said she was "thrilled" to be launching the campaign as part of City of Culture.

She said: "Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and we hope this campaign will encourage readers of all backgrounds to discover stories that nourish both the mind and the soul."

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