Books, a click away

A reason to rejoice for book-lovers, especially children as Katha Publishers have launched the 'Katha Book Club'. This is the first time that an NGO would be operating a book club. The proceeds will be given to Kathashala, its school, and 57 other communities in Delhi and Arunachal Pradesh, where 1,300 slum children would benefit.
The books will cater mainly to schoolchildren, since the summer vacations are on, besides teachers, professionals and housewives. Till now, Katha's books were mainly sold to literary societies and institutions but with the book club, Katha's books would now be available to individuals and children as well. The club will introduce Indian authors to children, offering something more than Harry Potter, and also create space for regional literature. Also, children may interact with each other online, and subsequently, develop skills such as expression, creative writing and critical thinking.
"We are not only promoting reading, but also introducing Indian authors and creating space for regional literature through their stories. We get children to interact with each other, share, and discuss what they have read to inculcate reading habits in them," said Vaishali Mathur, editor-in-charge, children's books.
According to Lubna Haq, Katha marketing strategist, "We want to bring the joy of reading directly to people's homes."
The book club will have an initial five-year membership fee of Rs 500. A member will get Rs 10 credit points for every Rs 100 of reading pleasure they buy. These credit points can be redeemed on the next purchase or kept for future purchases. They will also receive an online newsletter of Katha's latest releases and events including storytelling and puppetry. Also, they will receive a coupon to buy the Katha book of the month at a 30% discount.
And for every member you enrol for them, you receive credit points of Rs 100.
For membership, mail to directmarketing@katha.org