What makes a book mood-boosting? It might make you laugh out loud, transport you somewhere completely different, offer comfort when you need it or leave you feeling hopeful long after you’ve turned the final page.
For Mood-boosting Books 2026, young adults from across the country recommended the books that had made a difference to their mood. Young adults, librarians and booksellers then read and reviewed the longlisted titles, helping to create a final collection of ten feel-good, uplifting and meaningful reads.
Chosen by young adults aged 18–25, the collection is for adults of all ages to discover and enjoy.
Mood-boosting Books launches on 10 October for World Mental Health Day and Bookshop Day as part of the National Year of Reading 2026.
Discover Mood-boosting Books at BwDLibraries or explore the collection online at https://readingagency.org.uk/get-reading/our-programmes-and-campaigns/mood-boosting-books/