Peer-recommended reads for 2026: have some fun with fiction

James 

by Percival Everett  

James tells the story of Huckleberry Finn from Jim’s perspective. When Jim learns he will be sold and separated from his family, he runs away and meets Huck, who has faked his own death. Together, they set off on a dangerous journey down the Mississippi River. 

Trespass 

by Louise Kennedy  

Trespass is a forbidden love story. It's set during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. A young Catholic teacher, Cushla, begins an affair with a Protestant barrister named Michael. 

Reading matters for healthy ageing

Moving more is one of the best things you can do for your brain and overall health. But the activities you do to relax while sitting down also have an impact. 

Research from the University of South Australia shows sitting activities that encourage mental or social engagement boost brain health in older adults. This includes hobbies like reading or chatting with friends. On the other hand, passive habits like TV can harm brain health.  

So, consider swapping some screen time for a book or conversation – to protect your brain in the long run. 

Learning can be leisurely 

Reading something thought-provoking and engaging is a great way to challenge your brain. Doing so regularly helps keep you mentally active and healthy as you age.  

Interested in books to help you keep learning and expanding your mind? Check out AWAG’s top picks for: 

• Ageing science and self-help
• Historical stories and contemporary Australian voices

Find a book club: connect with your community today

A love of literature can help you connect with others through shared interests and book clubs.  

Use LiveUp’s social activities finder to discover book clubs near you. You might find: 

• Local library book clubs 
• Informal book discussion groups  
• Other community groups that suit your interests 

If you need more help finding a social group, get in touch with one of our helpful site navigators on 1800 951 971. 

References

Chang, Y.-H., Wu, I.-C., & Hsiung, C. A. (2021). Reading activity prevents long-term decline in cognitive function in older people: Evidence from a 14-year longitudinal study. International Psychogeriatrics, 33(1), 63-74. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1041610220000812 

Major, L., Simonsick, E. M., Napolitano, M. A., & DiPietro, L. (2023). Domains of sedentary behavior and cognitive function: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study, 1999/2000 to 2006/2007. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, 78(11), 2035–2041. https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glad020 

University of South Australia. (2024, December 12). Ditch TV and read a book – the best moves to reduce dementia risk. UniSA News. https://www.unisa.edu.au/media-centre/Releases/2024/ditch-tv-and-read-a-book/