Let's Read it Together... for Free!
In February 2009, our third citywide reading campaign joined The Lost World Read 2009 to give away thousands of free copies of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic tale, The Lost World. So where cdid those free copies go?
Free copies were distributed through Edinburgh's public libraries from 31st January, and at many Lost World themed public events. You can find out about free books in other parts of the UK at the national website for The Lost World Read 2009.
the books were popular, and all the free copies were claimed within a fe days.
Who Else Got Free Books?
Other free books went out across Edinburgh through the following outlets:
Book Groups - advance copies were given to groups across the city, after they registered with us. Contact us if you'd like to involve your Edinburgh-based book group in future projects.
Edinburgh Schools - class sets of free books were sent to all Edinburgh schools: see our Schools pages.
Community Groups - adult learners and community partners received free books.
Bookcrossing - The Lost World appeared on park benches, in coffee shops and on buses. Each of these books had a unique number, and are tracking them across the world. Copies of 2007's Kidnapped have appeared in Hong Kong, Kolkata and Barcelona!
The Different Editions
The free paperback edition contains Conan Doyle's full and unabridged story. Find out more about the book, and the new graphic biography of Darwin, on our Lost World Editions page.
The quick read edition was created especially for The Lost World Read - it's an abridged version of The Lost World which features the highlights of the story and the cover stars are the adventurous duo Wallace & Gromit. Perfect for either younger or less confident readers. Read or listen online to this version.
The Reader's Guide is packed with information about Darwin, Conan Doyle and The Lost World - focusing on the key themes of dinosaurs, evolution and science fiction. Featuring quizzes and book group notes, it's useful for all age groups and can also be read freely online at www.lostworldread.com.
This brand new graphic biography about the life of Charles Darwin is in the style of a comic book, and includes his studies in Edinburgh. The biography sheds light on some of the ideas in The Lost World, and is a new take on the life of the famous man, whose 200th birthday was celebrated in 2009 with a series of Darwin200 events across the UK.
Read Online For Free
Didn't get a copy? We've tried to make sure that as many people as possible can access The Lost World, so why not read it online or download the text?
Borrow A Copy
Libraries are full of free books. Extra copies of The Lost World are available to borrow from Edinburgh's public libraries, so there's no excuse - get reading!
Not based in Edinburgh?
Other parts of the UK, including Glasgow, took part in The Lost World Read 2009. For full details, visit the national website for The Lost World Read 2009.
