“Books have the unique ability both to entertain and to teach. They are at once a means of exploring realms beyond our personal experience through exposure to different authors, universes and cultures, and a means of accessing the deepest recesses of our inner selves.”

World Book and Copyright Day has long been a celebration of the art of reading. Each year on 23 April readers all over the world relish the joy of books and recognise the scope of books- as a link that connects generations and bridges gaps amongst different cultures. 

However, in the Covid world this day has taken on a new significance. Most schools have been shut down and people are locked in their homes depriving many of the connection they feel with the world. 

Now more than ever the power of books can be leveraged to shirk isolation blues, reinforce ties and feed our minds with the much-needed stimulation it needs.

Despite the incredible distance, one can freely open itself to books and travel freely (through imagination only, please stay at home otherwise). 

I feel that through the power of social media and by instilling a sense of belonging amongst audiences, we can engage readers and non-readers both. It is a pivotal time, and it will be a power move to encourage reading as much as possible. In the past few months/ years, I have always put in work to connect different entities of the publishing world on one platform. 

Whether it is through Frontlist (news platform specifically for readers, publishers and readers) or through Buy Books India (an e-commerce platform for readers) or through virtual events like Delhi Book Fair and I hope there will be many more. 

But as of now I would encourage students, teachers and readers from all around the world to share in the spirit of love and reading. Use modern technology as a tool to promote reading among young people- publishers, booksellers and libraries. 

And let me start first by asking OK. So your next book is…?