The Merton Big Read 2026
The Merton Big Read 2026 is The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak.
Set in London and Cyprus and spanning a lifetime, this magical novel follows the lives of two teenagers from opposite sides of a divided island, and tells a rich tale of belonging and identity, love and trauma, nature and renewal. The Island of Missing Trees explores the themes of human connection, the inheritance of pain, the power of kindness and the role of literature in giving a voice to the natural world.
The Island of Missing Trees is available to borrow across Merton Libraries and as an audio and ebook using the Overdrive Libby app
Also look out for Wimbledon BookFest events that will be taking place over the year.
Once you've read the book, please complete this short survey. Survey completers have the opportunity to enter into a prize draw later in the year. Feedback is essential to secure our funding from Arts Council England, to understand our audience and ensure everyone is heard and represented.