The Book That Changed My Life explores reading’s transformative power

Posted on 13 October 2026 • Arts and social sciences, TV and radio

A new OU/BBC documentary, The Book That Changed My Life, airs on Wednesday 14 October at 9pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

Her Majesty Queen Camilla joins four remarkable people as they reflect on the books that have had a profound influence on their lives. Combining personal stories with wider insights into the value of reading, the documentary explores how books can help people understand themselves, connect with others and navigate life’s challenges.

Professor Sara Haslam, Professor of Twentieth Century Literature at The Open University, supported the programme during its development.

She said: “It has been a real pleasure to support the BBC’s The Book That Changed My Life in development. The contributors share powerful testimonies of their route to a transformative book, and those who helped them get there, and the programme highlights the work that charities can do in securing access to books for all. It’s a great story, encouraging us all to read more!”

Professor Zoë Walkington, from The Open University’s School of Psychology and Counselling said:

“I am fascinated by the psychological impacts that reading books can have on us, in particular the way that reading fiction can transport us from the real world into a story world and how this experience can influence the empathy we might feel towards others.”

Visit our Broadcast & Partnerships site OU Connect and explore our interactive experience containing exclusive bonus videos and submit your own favourite books and stories.

The programme was supported by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), with particular relevance to R14 BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities, Q39 BA (Honours) English Language and Literature, Q66 BA (Honours) English Literature, Q86 BA (Honours) English Literature and Creative Writing, Q07 BSc (Honours) Psychology and Q83 BSc (Honours) Social Psychology.

Commissioned by Dr Caroline Ogilvie, Director, Broadcast & Partnerships

• Academic Consultant: Professor Sara Haslam and Professor Zoë Walkington

• Media Fellow: Dr Emily Bullock

• Broadcast Project Manager: Laura Connor

• Supporting Online Content: Steff Elliot-Sleigh

Image Credit: Blink Films