What are Quick Reads?
An introduction to Quick Reads - short, easy-to-read books by well-known authors.
Quick Reads have launched eight exciting new titles. You can read and listen to the first chapters here. Just click on the links to the right.
What are Quick Reads?
- Quick Reads are short, easy-to-read books by well-known authors.
- They are great for people who don't have much time to read, or for those who just fancy a quick read!
- They are very popular, several million have been bought and millions more borrowed free from libraries, often by people who might not usually read a book.
Where can I find them?
- You can borrow them for free from your local library.
- Some workplaces have copies which you can borrow for free.
- You can buy them at bookshops and supermarkets.
Many Quick Reads are available in large-print or as audio books. They are also available as eBooks which you can download onto your mobile phone, eReader or computer.
See below for a taster of each book.
Amy's Diary by Maureen Lee
On 3rd September 1939 Amy Browning starts to write a diary. It is Amy’s 18th birthday and the day Great Britain goes to war with Germany. Amy's fears for her friends and family soon grow as she realises that they all now live in a very dangerous world... A moving story of wartime struggle from best-seller Maureen Lee.
Beyond the Bounty by Tony Parsons
What happened after the crew of the Bounty cast their sadistic captain adrift? They swap cruelty and the lash for easy living in the island heaven of Tahiti. However, paradise turns out to have a darker side as the rebels’ dreams turn to nightmare... A tense and gritty historical novel from number one best-selling author Tony Parsons.
The Cleverness of Ladies by Alexander McCall Smith
There are times when ladies must use all their wisdom and good sense to solve life’s mysteries. Mama Ramotswe, owner of the No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, is just one of the capable ladies who will enchant you in these tales of love, heartbreak, hope and the cleverness of ladies. Best-selling author Alexander McCall Smith brings his trademark gift for storytelling to these five delightful short stories.
Doctor Who: Magic of the Angels by Jacqueline Rayner
When the Doctor, Amy and Rory see an amazing magic act, the Doctor thinks he knows why so many young girls are going missing around London. Teaming up with the residents of an old people’s home to discover the truth, the friends find themselves face to face with a deadly Weeping Angel. Whatever you do – don’t blink!
Full House by Maeve Binchy
Dee loves her children very much, but now they are all grown up, isn’t it time they left home? Rosie, Helen and Anthony are happy at home, and surely their parents like having a full house? Then there is a crisis, and Dee decides things have to change... whether the children like it or not. A touching tale of family troubles from number one best-seller Maeve Binchy.
Get the Life You Want by James Caan
It is possible to get the life you really want. You just need to change the way you think. Whether you want to get back into work or start your own business, use this ten-point plan to help you achieve your dreams. Top businessman and best-selling author James Caan shows you how to use business sense in everyday life.
The Little One by Lynda LaPlante
Struggling journalist Barbara tricks her way into the home of former soap star Margaret. Instead of the scoop she was hoping for, Barbara finds a creepy house full of strange noises in the night. Little by little Margaret’s haunting story is revealed and Barbara makes a chilling discovery... This spooky tale from best-selling author Lynda La Plante will make you want to sleep with the light on.
Quantum of Tweed by Conn Iggulden
When Albert Rossi knocks a man over in his Nissan Micra he is amazed he doesn’t hear from the police. Instead he gets a mysterious phone call telling him that his money will be left in the usual place. Albert Rossi’s life is about to get a whole lot more interesting... This hilarious spy-thriller spoof from number one best-selling author Conn Iggulden will make you laugh out loud.
For more about Quick Reads click on the links to the first chapters on the right, or visit the Quick Reads website: http://www.quickreads.org.uk
