Novelist Naomi Alderman Launches Couch-to-5k Style Reading Program

Novelist and BBC presenter Naomi Alderman has designed an eight-week reading program inspired by the couch-to-5k running plan, aiming to help people rebuild a regular reading habit. The program, announced via her Substack newsletter 'Whatever Works', offers three tracks: one for those aiming to read 30 minutes daily with longer sessions, one for time-limited readers targeting 20 minutes a day, and one for those who read but want to tackle more challenging material. Alderman, who previously worked on the running app Zombies, Run, developed the scheme in response to declining literacy rates and the pervasive influence of smartphones. A 2024 OECD report found literacy has declined or stagnated in most developed countries, and James Marriott's forthcoming book 'The New Dark Ages' argues that lack of reading impairs the ability to follow complex arguments. Alderman's program has already seen enthusiastic uptake, with participants reporting improved focus and reduced anxiety. Teachers have expressed interest in introducing the program in schools. The program is currently running, and newcomers can start from day one by reading for 10 minutes.