Australia knows a thing or two about a good pub crawl, but how about a book crawl? For the first time, independent bookstores and book lovers in and around Newcastle are coming together for a Global Book Crawl, and it’s a game-changer for book enthusiasts.
The concept is simple: collect a Global Book Crawl “passport” from a participating store, get a stamp at every bookstore you visit, and you’re in the running to win book prize packs or gift vouchers. The participating bookstores are: MacLean’s Booksellers, Hamilton; BOOK FACE, Erina Fair; Q’s Books, Hamilton; Betty Loves Books, Newcastle; The Press Coffee and Bookhouse, Newcastle; Cooks Hill Books, Newcastle; and Readers Retreat, Salamander Bay.
Meet the Minds Behind the Book Crawl
Alison Rogers, the owner of Readers Retreat, is one of the architects of Global Book Crawl’s Newcastle leg. A self-proclaimed book lover and avid reader, Rogers has been involved in the book trade for years. She’s also an author and academic, and her first book review was published in 1988 when she was just 11 years old.
“I call Readers Retreat ‘a place where people and books come together’ because I wanted to create a space where people could connect over reading and writing,” she says.
As an independent bookstore owner, Rogers has seen firsthand the impact that community support can have on local businesses. “We are constantly conversing with customers and letting them know that independent booksellers are opening up, expanding and thriving thanks to the support of booklovers who understand the value of what we offer,” she explains.
When asked about the state of reading habits among young people, Rogers is delighted to report that many still enjoy reading books in hard copy. “A large number of young people still read books and love reading books in hard copy,” she says. “I’ve had young men come in and spend their Saturday morning casual job money on a stack of classics from the Penguin spinner. I have many young women who read books on their electronic device or an audio book, but then order the book to add to their own bookshelf collection.”
Why This Book Crawl Matters
A report by the National Literacy Trust last year revealed that only 35% of eight to 18-year-olds enjoyed reading in their spare time. This statistic highlights the need for initiatives like the Global Book Crawl, which aims to promote reading and support local bookstores.
The Global Book Crawl is a great way to encourage people to explore their local bookstores and discover new titles and authors. By getting a stamp at each participating bookstore, participants can track their progress and connect with fellow book lovers.
Get Involved
Want to join in on the fun? Head to globalbookcrawl.org/cities-newcastle for more information on the Global Book Crawl, including details on participating bookstores and how to collect your passport.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support local bookstores and connect with fellow book enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for April 21-27 and get ready to embark on a book crawl like no other!
| Participating Bookstores | Address |
| MacLean’s Booksellers | Hamilton |
| BOOK FACE | Erina Fair |
| Q’s Books | Hamilton |
| Betty Loves Books | Newcastle |
| The Press Coffee and Bookhouse | Newcastle |
| Cooks Hill Books | Newcastle |
| Readers Retreat | Salamander Bay |
Learn More
For more information on the Global Book Crawl, visit globalbookcrawl.org/cities-newcastle.
Follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #globalbookcrawl Don’t miss out on this exciting event! Get involved and support local bookstores! Join the movement and celebrate the joy of reading!
By participating in the Global Book Crawl, you’ll not only be supporting local bookstores, but also contributing to a more vibrant literary community.
