Malta’s Reading Habits: A Book Every Four Months

Picture this: it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon in the heart of Rabat. The sun is casting a warm glow over the ancient streets, and in the shade of a centuries-old balcony, a local is engrossed in the latest bestseller. This scene, repeated across the island, is part of Malta’s literary scene. According to a recent study, the average Maltese buys three books a year. But what does this tell us about our reading habits?

The study, conducted by the National Book Council, reveals that while print books remain the preferred choice, e-books are gaining traction. Malta’s digital revolution has seeped into our reading habits, with 15% of respondents admitting to reading e-books. This shift is evident in local bookstores, too. While the smell of new books still fills the air at places like The Bookshop in Valletta, e-book platforms like Amazon Kindle are making waves.

So, what are we reading? Crime and thriller novels top the list, followed by romance and historical fiction. Local authors like Clare Azzopardi and Immanuel Mifsud are also making waves, with their works featured in the top 10 bestsellers. This love for local literature is a testament to Malta’s vibrant cultural scene, with events like the Malta Book Festival and the Valletta Literature Festival celebrating our literary heritage.

While three books a year might seem like a lot, it means we’re reading a book every four months. That’s a quarter of a year spent in the company of fictional characters, historical figures, or thought-provoking ideas. It’s a quarter of a year dedicated to learning, escaping, and exploring. Not bad, Malta.

With the rise of audiobooks and the increasing popularity of book clubs, Malta’s reading scene is far from stagnant. The next big thing? Perhaps it’s the resurgence of local literature, or the rise of digital platforms. Whatever it is, one thing’s for sure: Malta’s love affair with books is far from over.

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King