What is The Queen's Reading Room charity studying?

The Queen's Reading Room charity is conducting a neuroscientific study on the physiological and psychological effects of book clubs.

When will the results of the book club study be published?

The results of the study are expected to be published by World Mental Health Day in October.

How does reading alone compare to reading in a book club according to new research?

While reading alone reduces stress and improves focus, the new study explores additional benefits of shared reading for social connection and wellbeing.

Home / Science / Book Clubs Boost Brains: New Study Unveiled

Book Clubs Boost Brains: New Study Unveiled

23 Jan

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Summary

New neuroscientific study to examine book club impacts.
Research explores physiological and psychological effects of group reading.
Results expected by World Mental Health Day in October.

Book Clubs Boost Brains: New Study Unveiled

The Queen's Reading Room charity has announced a significant neuroscientific study focused on the impact of book clubs. Led by Professor Sam Wass at the University of East London, the investigation aims to understand the physiological and psychological benefits derived from shared reading experiences.

This research will delve into how collective reading influences stress reduction, strengthens social bonds, and enhances mental wellbeing. Previous studies by the charity in 2024 highlighted that even short periods of fiction reading can significantly decrease stress and improve concentration, while also noting a correlation between frequent reading and lower levels of loneliness.

The initiative, part of The Queen's Reading Room's 'Make Room for Reading' motto for its fifth anniversary in 2026, seeks to build evidence for the positive effects of communal literary engagement. The findings are slated for release on World Mental Health Day in October.