Reading Subscriptions – FAQs


How often will books be sent?
Subscribers receive either three, six or twelve books throughout the year depending on the choice of subscription. They will be sent out by 2nd class post in the 1st week of a month either once every 4 months, every two months or every month.

How do we select the books we send to the recipient?
We email a questionnaire to the recipient to find out about the books and authors they love, anything they dislike and other information which will help our expert booksellers choose the perfect books for them. Our emphasis will always be on new books and unusual or lesser known gems.

When will the subscription start?
If the recipient completes their questionnaire by the end of the 3rd week in a month, we will send out their first book in the first week of the following month. If the recipient does not complete their questionnaire within a month we will select a newly published book for them in the first week of the following month.

Can I send a personal message to the recipient?
Yes – you can add your message when you purchase the subscription, we will then include it in the welcome email we send the recipient. If you miss doing this at the point of purchase you can with your message: [email protected]

I would like to purchase a Young Reader’s Subscription for a child who is dyslexic, will it work for them?
Yes – please email the bookshop on [email protected], and we will get in touch about making sure we find the perfect books for your child and their reading needs.

Which Young Readers’ Subscription should I choose if a child’s reading age is above their actual age?
The best thing is for you to subscribe to the reading age that you feel will best suit the child you’re buying for. 

Do we aware that while the language and complexity in books increases as you move up age groups, the content maturity and themes do as well. For example, if you have a very able 11 year old reader, the content of a teen book could be too mature for them even if they can read the text.

Unwanted books:
If you have a subscription and receive a book from us which you already have or can’t use, do get in contact and we’ll try to arrange an alternative. You can only do one swap per subscription term.

What happens if I move?
Please contact us with the new address. To ensure that books are sent to the correct address we’ll need to be told of any changes no later than the end of the 3rd week of a month for books to due to be sent the following month.

Can subscriptions be purchased for overseas readers?
Our subscriptions are only available in the UK at the moment – we hope to expand this in due course.

Can I cancel my subscription part way through?
No – the subscriptions are for fixed terms and paid for in advance. 

Can I renew my A Year in Books subscription?
Yes – we’ll send out a renewal invitation once your subscription ends, or alternatively you can contact us at the bookshop by email or phone.