Charity shops are full of books that once lived cosy lives on someone’s bedside table, holiday suitcase, or dusty bookshelf. Now they’re waiting for a second chance — and what better way to rehome them than through a blind date?

For this swap, you’ll head to your local, or favourite, charity shop and choose one pre-loved book you think someone else might enjoy. Have a look at your swap partner's profile. The swap is the sender's choice, but it's always good to check for any dislikes. It could be funny, serious, uplifting, strange, chunky, slim, classic, modern — anything except damaged or unusable.

Wrap it in brown paper (or any paper you like), and create a little “dating profile” for the book on the front. Give your partner a taste of the story without revealing too much. Think of it as literary matchmaking with a wink.

Examples:

“Loves poetry, hates spoilers, enjoys long train journeys.”

“Moody, atmospheric, great with candles and thunderstorms.”

“Funny, slightly chaotic, flatters your intelligence.”

“A bit dramatic, but in a good way.”

What to Send

✔️ 1 charity-shop paperback or hardback (clean, good condition) ✔️ Wrapped in brown paper (or other wrapping) ✔️ 3–6 ‘dating profile’ clues on the outside ✔️ A short note or postcard with your username and swap name

Optional (but always appreciated): — A teabag or sachet of hot chocolate — A bookmark — A tiny sticker or two — A note about why you picked this book

Most charity shop books cost between £1–£3. Please don’t spend more than £5 unless you genuinely want to.

⭐ Rate a 5 if you receive:

A wrapped book

Dating profile clues

A note/postcard

Sent on time

❤️ Give a heart for extra effort, creativity, thoughtful touches, or if the profile made you laugh.

⭐ Rate fairly — this swap is about sharing stories, not guaranteeing a specific genre or author.

Don't forget to include the swap name and your swap name.

I'll angel if needed, but if you have any problems sending, please let your partner and me know in advance. No recent/unexplained 1's or 3's