Penguin Classics to launch London pop-up bookshop

Penguin Classics will launch its first ever pop-up bookshop next month with a series of events and workshops planned.

Happy Reading will open in Shoreditch on Monday 25th March with the pop-up running until Sunday 31st March “to celebrate reading for pleasure and the special books that impact our lives”, said Penguin Classics. Showcasing the range and diversity of world literature, the space will showcase a single copy of each of the 1,257 books in the world-renowned Penguin Classics list. 

Working with the National Literacy Trust, Penguin Classics is inviting schoolchildren from the local area to engage with literature.  During the evenings, the space will host a range of events and workshops. Confirmed events include a Mother’s Day candle making workshop with Literati & Light, a panel discussion on happiness in partnership with Refinery29 and an event focussing on women in the canon with Penguin Live. 

Brand director for Penguin Classics Sam Voulters said: “We’re thrilled to be opening up a space to bring the world of Penguin Classics to life. Working with amazing partners from Refinery29 to the National Literacy Trust, we want to break Classics out of the classroom and celebrate these books that have created culture, changed lives and thrilled and entertained readers through the years.”

Jonathan Douglas, director of the National Literacy Trust, added: “We know that children and young people who enjoy reading do better at school, at work and in life. Books give children the words, ideas and knowledge they need to flourish, which is why we are so thrilled to be working with Penguin Classics to introduce these books to a new generation of readers. Filled with characters, experiences, emotions and perspectives that are still relevant today, the classics provide something to inspire every young person to fall in love with reading for a lifetime.”

The Happy Reading pop-up shop will be open from Monday 25th March to Sunday 31st March. Visiting hours are from 10am-6pm each day, with extended visiting hours for the evening events. Tickets for the events can be purchased here.