HAPPY NEW YEAR! Oh, sorry, was that a little too enthusiastic for you? OK, granted, it’s grey outside, it’s a long way until pay day and you’re suddenly regretting the seconds you helped yourself to over Christmas. But if the idea of leaving your hibernation on the sofa with a good book is hard to contemplate, then maybe starring in your very own adventure while you follow up on that exercise resolution will appeal?

I find running dull, dull, dull. But something like the Zombies, Run! app might just get me to stick in some headphones and pound the pavement. Cleverly putting the runner at the centre of a story, or ‘mission’, you have to make it in one piece to one of humanity’s last outposts, and if zombies begin to chase, you’d better speed up! I love the idea of feeling in the middle of an immersive story (novelist Naomi Alderman is a co-creator), peppered with songs from my own playlist.

And speaking of running and if you just can’t bear to get all sweaty yourself, can I take a moment to mention that our very own Kelly is taking part in Literary Trust’s Where’s Wally fun run (yes, dressed as the man himself) this March. Head along to her Just Giving page if you fancy giving to a good cause.

Lesley Crooks, Publishing Manager