Senior leaders at Bonnier Books UK take on Arctic Challenge

Bonnier Books UK’s co-CEO Jonathan Perdoni, as well as colleagues Rachel Johnson, Matt Phillips and Stella Giatrakou are taking on the Arctic Challenge to raise funds and awareness for the National Literacy Trust as part of the publisher’s National Year of Reading activities.

Rachel Johnson is group brand and communications director, Matt Philips the adult division deputy managing director and Stella Giatrakou adult rights director.

Set in Swedish Lapland, where temperatures can fall to -35°C and daylight lasts only a few hours each day – a region known in Sweden for hosting military winter training – the challenge will be set across four demanding days, during which the team will complete a 35km dog-sled race, a 20km Arctic hike and a series of survival and endurance tasks including orienteering, ice fishing and fire-lighting.

The challenge will take place between 16th January and 23rd January 2026. So far, £5,200 of an £8,000 target has been raised. Donations can be made here.

Perdoni said: “At Bonnier, our support for the incredible work of the National Literacy Trust has always been a deeply important partnership for us. Taking on the Arctic Challenge during the National Year of Reading is a powerful way to spotlight why literacy matters so much – not just for education, but for life chances. With our company’s Swedish roots in a country that places huge value on reading and learning, it feels especially meaningful to be undertaking this challenge in Swedish Lapland while supporting children’s literacy here in the UK. All contributions are hugely welcomed.”