‘In a world in which we tend to look to what’s new, to cutting-edge science and to medical breakthroughs for hope in better health, there’s something marvellous in the realisation that one of the most beautiful and longest-lasting cures has been here all along – on the internet, on our bookshelves, under our noses. Words – down the centuries, over the ether, across the miles – have power to steady us, to make us feel better.’ the Observer The ancient tradition of learning and reciting poetry is renowned for its wellbeing benefits – from strengthening the mind and boosting creativity to improving memory. The practice is as valuable as ever in our busy modern day lives, allowing us to focus on the rhythm of the present moment, slow down and switch off. A Year of Reading Aloud celebrates the power of spoken word with a poem to learn and love for each week of the year. Drawing both on familiar favourites and new voices, from Sylvia Plath and Maya Angelou to Instapoets Nikita Gill and Yrsa Daley-Ward – this is a book that will capture your imagination through verse and help you fall back in love with this beautiful art form. Includes a foreword by Rachel Kelly, bestselling author of 52 Small Steps to Happiness and Black Rainbow.