Read to Feel – Therapeutic Book Club
Read to Feel is a unique 8-week book club that blends shared reading with therapeutic expression, designed for children aged 8–11. In communities where trauma and adversity often go unspoken, this project uses accessible chapter books to spark imagination, build resilience, and offer a safe space for emotional sharing.
Purpose
The programme encourages children to explore big feelings and everyday challenges through the safety of story. Each week, a chapter is read aloud, with opportunities for gentle discussion and creative reflection. By engaging with relatable characters and themes, children can process emotions, develop empathy, and see their own experiences mirrored in a positive way.
Impact
The shared reading experience helps build listening skills, concentration, and a sense of belonging within the group. The wellbeing-themed creative activities—such as designing a bravery badge or kindness postcard—give children tangible tools for expressing emotions. Each child takes home their own copy of the book, encouraging continued reading and emotional connection beyond the sessions.
Outcome
Children are more likely to show improved confidence, emotional vocabulary, and social connection. They often begin to apply the themes discussed—such as kindness, courage, and empathy—to their own lives, supporting better relationships and resilience.
Read to Feel – Example Session
The group settles in with cushions and hot chocolate as the facilitator reads aloud a gripping chapter. The story sparks lively discussion—children share what they think might happen next and why a character made a certain choice. Then it’s onto a creative “takeaway” activity—designing a courage badge, story postcard, or mini comic strip to bring home. Each child leaves with their own copy of the book to keep, ready to read the next instalment.
How many children will be there?
Small group – 8 children
What does it cost?
8 × 40m sessions – £150 per child
Books & Themes
Fantastic Mr. Fox – Roald Dahl (Bravery + cleverness)
Charlotte’s Web – E.B. White (Friendship + kind words)
The Wild Robot – Peter Brown (Feeling out of place + resilience)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – J.K. Rowling (Belonging + finding your people)
Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet – Zanib Mian (Worry + being misunderstood)
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – C.S. Lewis (Imagination + courage) – Design a wardrobe door to your world
The Boy at the Back of the Class – Onjali Q. Raúf (Being new + empathy)
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing – Judy Blume (Sibling frustration + identity)
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