The Bookseller.com

25th July 2008

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Top 100 push for WBD

22.11.07 Anna Richardson

Eleven new publishers have joined the World Book Day "Spread the Word" campaign, despite initial concerns from organisers about responses from the trade. Submissions came from more than 40 publishers and their various imprints, including first-time contributors such as Snow Books, Quercus and Tindal Street.

The new campaign, which will result in the announcement of The Book to Talk About 2008 on World Book Day (6th March 2008), launched its website and list of 100 "hidden gems" today (Friday). The selection was chosen by a panel of judges, and features established authors such as David Mitchell and Jonathan Coe, as well as "rising stars", including Hari Kunzru, Helon Habila and US authors Sara Gruen and Dara Horn.

It will be promoted on the WBD microsite and to reading groups and literary bloggers, encouraging the public to vote for their favourites. The website also offers downloadable tool kits for book groups.

The 10 most popular titles will be announced in early February to encourage discussion in Books to Talk About reading groups in libraries and bookshops around the UK. For the full list of titles visit www.worldbookday.com/spreadtheword.

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