Malta’s Reading Habits: 3 Books a Year

Imagine strolling down Republic Street, Malta’s bustling heart, on a lazy Sunday afternoon. You pass by the iconic Auberge de Castille, now the Office of the Prime Minister, and notice something unusual. Among the usual crowd of tourists and locals, there’s a sudden surge of people carrying books. Not just one or two, but three books each. This isn’t a literary flash mob; it’s a glimpse into Malta’s reading habits, as revealed in a recent study.

Books by the Bakers’ Dozen: The Average Maltese Reader

The study, conducted by the National Book Council, has unearthed an interesting statistic: the average Maltese buys three books a year. That’s right, we’re not just talking about the avid readers who devour books like they’re going out of style. The average Joe, who might be more likely to be found at the bakery than the bookstore, buys three books annually. But what kind of books are we reading?

From Crime to Cooking: Malta’s Literary Tastes

Crime and mystery top the charts, with local authors like Chris Pawley and Ian Vella finding a significant readership. But it’s not all thrillers and chills. Self-help and cookbooks also fly off the shelves, with Maltese chefs like Marvin Gauci and Maria Micallef inspiring culinary adventures in home kitchens. And let’s not forget our love for local history and culture, with books like ‘Malta: An Island Story’ by Anthony Pace and ‘The Malta Story’ by Malta’s National Museum of Archaeology curator, Dr. Anthony Bonanno, finding their way into many a bookshelf.

But what about e-books and audiobooks? Are they making inroads into Malta’s literary scene? The answer is a resounding yes. With the rise of digital platforms and audiobook services like Storytel and Audible, more Maltese readers are embracing these formats. But there’s still something about holding a physical book, turning the pages, and feeling the weight of it in your hands. After all, we’re a nation of book lovers, not just readers.

So, the next time you’re out and about, keep an eye out for your fellow Maltese, books in hand. You might just spot a kindred spirit, lost in the pages of their latest read. And who knows, you might even find your next great read. Happy reading, Malta!