Fifteen artists of the Lots Road Group, in association with BookTrust, celebrate the pleasure of reading.

Artists have always enjoyed creating images of people reading. The resulting portraits allow the viewer to share a quiet interlude with the subject, which in turn reflects the pleasure of reading itself.

The portraits in this volume present the Lots Road Group’s interpretation of the theme. The sitters span all ages: some are well-known authors such as Michael Bond, creator of Paddington Bear, and some are intimates - friends and family. One is imaginary. All the images are accompanied by narratives giving the sitters’ own thoughts on reading and its significance to them. Together, words and the paintings give a palpable sense of the joy of reading.

BookTrust works to inspire a love of reading in children and families because reading transforms lives. BookTrust gives all children access to high-quality books and encourages parents to read with their children from the first year. Its innovative programmes put books and supporting materials into the hands of those who would not otherwise have them.