Becky

Becky is the Children’s and Schools Lead Bookseller at Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights. She has been running for many years, and is a passionate champion for children’s reading.

Why do you run?

“I run because it gives me a sense of flying. It clears my head, gives me breathing space and allows me to process the world. I was recently diagnosed with autism and ADHD, and so many things have now started to make sense to me, one of them being why I need to move my body and clear my head. Running is my happy and safe space that no one can touch.”

What does reading mean to you?

“Reading and storytelling are the closest things we have to magic. I have seen how reading has changed the lives of children at Mr B’s bookshop. I have been choosing books for some of these children for nearly five years, and the level of empathy, heart and passion they have is astounding. As a bookseller, it’s a privilege to understand someone’s soul through books. If we could bottle up all the feelings I have about books and reading, there would be less hate in the world.”

How do you feel about the upcoming marathon in three words?

“Elated. Terrified. Dedicated.”

Holly is a teacher and the Reading and Literacy Lead at her school. Running the London Marathon is a new challenge for her, and she’s going to channel the power of reading into her running. 

What are your marathon ‘must-haves’?

“Supporters! Haha. Since telling my family and friends that I’m running the marathon so many of them have said that they’ll be there to cheer me on and that means the most to me to be honest. Also good vibes and good tunes! I am not an experienced runner so I’m sure there are many things that I will need that I haven’t really explored yet, but I’m looking forward to learning what works for me and what will help me through the big day.”

Do you have a preferred way of reading e.g hardback, e-book, audiobook etc.

“As someone who drives a lot, I am a big fan of audiobooks. I feel as though it puts me back to my childhood and being read to as a kid. It also brings the book to life massively! When not listening I do prefer to read e-books as I have so many books that I have simply run out of space! I have very special books that I have in either hardback or paperback and I also will buy books from charity shops if I see one that I have been wanting to read for ages.”

How do you feel about the upcoming marathon in three words?

“Excited. Focused. Determined.”

Jan

Jan is a film producer, and described himself as a ‘lifelong runner’. With a wealth of experience in challenge events, London is the next on the list! He’s a big reader, and feels passionate about reversing the declining rates of reading.

Why do you run?

“Running has been the throughline since I was a kid that I could always fall back on. A good run (much like a good book) has been a recurring comfort during the different stages, trials and phases of life. There’s something that normally clicks a few minutes into a run when I remember how much I love it. Sometimes that feeling stays, sometimes it goes away – usually depending on how many hills there are. Regardless, you never regret a run once it’s done.”

How did you get into reading?

“My dad got me into the classics as a kid. The first books I really remember loving were adventure books like The Count of Monte Cristo, Huckleberry Finn, and The Hobbit.”

How do you feel about the upcoming marathon in three words?

“Umm. Well. Hmmm.”

Karthik

Karthik is a parent to two young children and works at Accenture. He has a strong personal belief in the power of reading, and runs regularly when he has the opportunity.

Why do you run?

“I run for two reasons that are deeply personal to me. The first is to honour the memory of my cousin Mani, who was like a brother to me. He passed away at the age of 37 after a lifelong battle with a heart condition. As I approach my 40th birthday, I wanted to take on a challenge that would celebrate his strength and resilience while raising funds for a cause that can positively impact others.

The second is to support the next generation through reading. As a father of two daughters, I have seen how books can build confidence, imagination, empathy, and curiosity. Running the London Marathon gives me the opportunity to champion a cause that helps children discover opportunities and joy through reading.

For me, every mile represents both remembrance and hope.”

Do you have a preferred way of reading e.g hardback, e-book, audiobook etc.

“I enjoy a combination of formats depending on the situation. For personal development and learning, I often prefer physical books because I enjoy highlighting sections and returning to them later. For commuting and busy days, audiobooks are incredibly convenient and allow me to keep learning while travelling.

At home, however, nothing beats sitting down with a traditional book and sharing stories with my children.”

How do you feel about the upcoming marathon in three words?

“Honoured, Determined. Excited.”

Susannah

Susannah is a school librarian, and has run Readathon at her school. A keen regular runner, taking part in the London marathon has always been a dream. She will be celebrating her 50th birthday next year, what a brilliant combo!

What are your marathon ‘must-haves’?

“A cup of tea and a digestive biscuit before I set out, my Asics Kayano trainers, and a sweat band on my wrist, because it drives me mad when sweat drips off my nose!”

Have you been impacted by the work Read For Good does?

“My son spent several days in hospital a few years ago.  One day, amongst endless visits from doctors and nurses, a smiley lady dropped by and asked if he would like her to read to him.  I’m afraid he was feeling quite poorly and was rather grumpy. He refused to engage and she left.  A few minutes later she popped back and quietly handed me a brand new book for him to keep, The Contender, by Taran Matharn.  We couldn’t believe it, she was so kind and understanding, and it felt so generous.  It really gave us a boost.  My son is not much of a reader, but he did read this book, and the rest of the series, and the series that followed!

I have also run Readathons at school.  I have used your promotional videos to motivate the students to keep reading, keep raising and keep being amazing, and it always feels like a double win – raising money and increasing their reading.”

How do you feel about the upcoming marathon in three words?

“Awestruck. Enthusiastic. Empowered.”