Blokes bribed with beer to read books

Organisers of New Zealand Book Month are offering free beer to try to entice blokes to read books.

To promote reading as a "manly" activity, organisers have invited fathers and their sons to an evening of male bonding over sports, adventure and literature.

When they arrive at the venue, the Auckland Town Hall, the guests will also get a free beer – but only if they produce identification.

Project director Michele Powles said New Zealand Book Month aims to get as many New Zealanders as possible involved with and excited about Kiwi writing.

"Men's events are few and far between in the literary sector but there are plenty of men that enjoy a great read. We'll be celebrating them, and looking to grow awareness of Kiwi writing in this part of our population. "

The main event of the night will be a discussion hosted by Peter Leitch, better known as The Mad Butcher, who recently released his autobiography.

He will converse with other blokey Kiwi authors, including sports presenter Phil Gifford and Ruapehu explosion survivor William Pike, about their inspirations.

The evening, entitled A Word in his Ear, will be held on August 6, to coincide with Father's Day.

- NZPA