ABOUT

What is Shared Reading?

The Shared Reading Society trains people in nonprofits to become Reader Leaders and bring Shared Reading to others. Shared Reading happens when a Reader Leader brings together a group of people and reads aloud from a poem, short story, or novel. Then, firmly rooted in kindness, the Reader Leader skillfully facilitates a bold, real discussion about what was read. Realness happens because it is people's personal understandings and experiences that meet and move the text and the discussion. Shared Reading is not about literary criticism. It is live thinking and feeling in response to a shared and immediate experience. This is what makes it accessible for everyone.


Here is a video of Shared Reading in action:

Walking Away. 


Won't you walk with us?

The Green Reading Room

Every Wednesday, from noon until 1:00 Central Standard time, join a shared reading session in which the readings center on the literature and poetry of the natural world. This reading room is open for everyone and free for everyone. We are so glad you are here.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN! 

The Benefits
of Shared Reading

Extensive research shows that participants in Shared Reading state deep social and emotional benefits, an increased sense of community and overall wellbeing, as well as a more positive relationship to literature. 

95%

of survey respondents who said Shared Reading makes me feel better

95%

of survey respondents look forward to coming each week

94%

of survey respondents feel they belong in this group

84%

of inmates respondents who think differently after hearings others views

Our Mission

Together. Better.

The Shared Reading Society is a socially spirited organization with the mission to train Reader Leaders to bring a Shared Reading experience to groups of people in various settings in order to nurture wellness, foster stronger relationships between people and literature, create a more connected community, and spark positive personal, societal, and environmental change. 

Our Members and Partners

Member: Mount Olivet Adult Day Services, Minneapolis

Since 1995, Mount Olivet Adult Day Services program has served hundreds of adults seeking therapeutic activity, socialization, health monitoring and educational enrichment. 

Shared Reading happens here on Tuesdays. 

Member: Brooklyn Center Community Schools

Brooklyn Center Community Schools students have participated in Shared Reading of poems and short stories in class and as a chosen Enrichment. 

Being a member of The Shared Reading Society furthers the district's mission to fuel the unique genius of every student and to offer students, families and the community wrap-around wellness supports.

Partner: The Reader, UK

The Reader started the worldwide Reading Revolution. 

Founded in Liverpool, England in the late 1990s by Jane Davis, The Reader started the global Shared Reading movement. From their social enterprises and the events and activities housed at Calderstones Mansion, the work done here serves to bring Shared Reading to everyone, everywhere. 

Partner: The Reading Revolution

The Reading Revolution was started in New Zealand in 2015 by Kate Middleton. She wanted to use free community spaces, like libraries, to connect socially isolated older people living alone. 

Also partnered and trained by The Reader, The Reading Revolution has grown from an initial group of friends and whanau into a vibrant volunteer based organization.