Christmas Books: Stories That Travel Further

This Christmas, we’re celebrating the power of stories and the generosity of those who make them possible.

We’ve seen first-hand the difference books can make. When we introduced a library at Manchester H.M.P. some years ago and supplied other prisons across the Northwest with brand-new titles, the impact was clear. In 2022, actor and author Sam Heughan supported us by gifting hundreds of his new books to the homeless sector, and once again the effect was immediate and lasting. Suddenly, people on the streets, in hostels, and in day centres had stories to unwrap, companions to hold, and sparks of imagination to carry them through difficult times.

Now, we’re proud to say we’re in a position to do it again. Thanks to the incredible support of publishers, hundreds more books will be shared across Greater Manchester this Christmas. These donations will reach children in care homes, families in shelters, and young people in community hubs – ensuring that stories continue to travel further than the page.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Lola from London‑based Walker Books Group Company, Walker Books – Walker Books – Childrens Books who donated board books, picture books, and middle‑grade reads, complete with bookmarks – for children in care. To Kieron at Octopus Publishing Group Octopus | The home of non-fiction publishing, also London‑based, for his generous contribution of adult books for those without a home, and to our very own Manchester partners, Alice and Korush from HarperCollins, HarperCollins UK Publishers Ltd. – HarperCollins Publishers UK whose support ensures stories reach struggling families and young people right here in our city.

Books are more than presents. They are escapes, reminders, and sometimes lifelines. For children in care, a book can be the first step into a world where they feel seen. For young people in shelters, it can be a reminder that their story isn’t finished yet.

Having spent over a decade on the frontline, listening to those on the streets, in detention centres, and in prisons, I’ve understood the importance of giving a voice to people who so often go unseen and unheard. That’s why, since our prison programme and the book written by inmates, we’ve always tried to shine a positive light through the power of books. Whether it’s fiction that sparks imagination or self-help titles that offer guidance, stories can change lives.

This year, your donations mean that hundreds of children and families will have something to unwrap and something to hold onto. We’re deeply grateful for your support, and proud to share these stories across our communities. Because every gift matters. And every story deserves to be heard.

From me personally as founder: Lola, Kieron, Korush and Alice – thank you for giving so generously and without hesitation this Christmas. Your kindness ensures every story finds its way to those who need it most.

Antonia x