

The Book Club: Lucy Mangan
Jun 11, 2025
Lucy Mangan, author of 'Bookish' and 'Bookworm', shares her insights on the evolution of reading in a digital age. She reminisces about what teens did before young adult books, and the struggles of modern readers amidst tech distractions. Mangan also reflects on the comfort of romance novels and the escape literature offers to new mothers. Highlighting the charm of children's storytelling, she discusses the whimsical style of iconic authors and the importance of fostering a love for books in today's world.
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Childhood Reading vs Adult Life
- Reading as an adult often feels less immersive due to responsibilities and busy life.
- Childhood reading memories are cherished as more immersive and uninterrupted.
Pre-YA Reading Patterns Explained
- Before YA books, boys gravitated to horror and crime genres, girls to light romance.
- Immersive, long novels like Maeve Binchy's works helped prolong childhood serial feelings.
Adolescent Reading Deepens Experience
- Adolescent reading teaches about emotions and real experiences beyond childhood imaginings.
- Reading prepares readers for life's emotional realities, like first kisses.