Is reading in decline? Lee Child on the power of literature

The Power of Reading with Lee Child and Dreda Say Mitchell

Monday 8th June 2026

1-2pm

RSA House and online via YouTube

Bestselling author Lee Child joins award-winning writer Dreda Say Mitchell for a live conversation at The Royal Society of Arts on the 8th of June. Together, they will explore the power of reading to shape and enrich lives and unlock opportunity for all. They will discuss what authors, institutions, and readers need to do to ensure reading remains central to culture, creativity, and human connection.

From Child’s global success with the Jack Reacher series to Mitchell’s work championing literacy and Pr*son reading initiatives, this event examines how books can transform individuals and communities.

The discussion will be opened by Karen Napier Reading Agency CEO, and spotlight the role of accessible publishing, including Quick Reads, in tackling barriers to reading in an age of declining attention and growing inequality.

• Lee Child, Author

• Dreda Say Mitchell, Author

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