Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford is launching a book club so that all children can experience the escapism of reading.
The footballer is teaming up with Macmillan Children’s Books (MCB) to promote reading and literacy among children from all socio-economic backgrounds.
Rashford said he wishes he had the chance to read more as a child but his family had to prioritise food over books when it came to budgeting.
Next year will also see the launch of the Marcus Rashford Book Club, a reader recommends programme publishing front list titles from MCB’s successful list.
Rashford said: “I only started reading at 17, and it completely changed my outlook and mentality.”
“I just wish I was offered the opportunity to really engage with reading more as a child, but books were never a thing we could budget for as a family when we needed to put food on the table.
“There were times where the escapism of reading could have really helped me. I want this escapism for all children. Not just those that can afford it.
“We know there are over 380,000 children across the UK today that have never owned a book, children that are in vulnerable environments. That has to change.
“My books are, and always will be, for every child, even if I have to deliver them myself. We will reach them.”
