Unionlearn first introduced me to Quick Read books. At once I looked into the books and the format of Quick Reads, and after looking at some case study's and reading a book it was clear they could have a positive impact in the workplace. 

I have been visiting Royal Mail offices throughout the south west in the postal code area of EX and TQ. Each office has had the 2015/16 books over the last two years. The books are placed in workplace rest rooms and canteens where they can be read, taken home and swapped with fellow postal staff members. 

I have also been giving out the books in a local primary school in Exeter (Montgomery Primary School) to students and parents to encourage joint reading and also reading at all ages. 

The books have proven very popular, Exeter Royal Mail centre staff have really made the most of having the reading opportunity in the canteen area. One member of staff has read all the previous books over the last two years, and supplied a book review for each. 

Postal workers have been able to get inspired back into reading while having a meal break, many have continued to read Quick Reads due to the size and ease supplied by this format. 

The books have all been well received, but in particular the two Andy McNab books have been very popular with the postal workers, these books soon ran out as request kept coming. His style of writing and story's had postal workers wanting more and got many back into reading. 

Outside of work I began talking to a local primary school and promoting what I have been doing in Royal Mail, I saw an opportunity to inspire parents and children into reading jointly with the Doctor Who / A Cat Called Bob books. 

These were soon snapped up, with great feedback resulting in an award for myself as a School Community Champion. Children and parents have been inspired to read together and discover the wonderful world of story's and imagination. 

These books have been amazing, the style and ease in which people can pick up a book and enter a world of imagination while in the workplace has been inspiring in itself. The books have led to people finding new favourite authors and getting back into reading in the fast paced world we now live in. 

I would recommend Quick Reads to everyone and anyone of all ages, being able to read a short book and relax is a good way to escape modern life and also inspire further reading. Reading can also open doors to new learning opportunities and courses available via union learning or further education providers. 

It's so easy to pick up a Quick Reads book and before you know it you have moved onto another story written by well-known authors. They are great for at work when on a break or at home – if you have not used Quick Reads before make sure you get hold of the latest selection and give them a go.