Powerful documentary reveals how ‘Shared Reading’ is fighting the Loneliness Epidemic
- Christopher Smith
- 14 minutes ago
- 3 min read
'Life, the Universe & Stories' is now available to watch on YouTube...
A heartwarming and inspiring new short documentary entitled ‘Life, the Universe, and Stories’ uncovers the extraordinary power of shared reading — a simple yet ground-breaking practice that is transforming lives by ending loneliness, improving mental health, and bringing communities together in the most unexpected ways.
Filmed by Blue Mountains filmmaker Nick Agafonoff (Authentic Video), the film follows the journey of Christopher Smith, 2024 Blue Mountains Citizen of the Year and founder of Shared Reading NSW. A long-time advocate of social bibliotherapy, Smith has pioneered the practice in Australia, adapting it from his UK roots and proving its potential to connect and heal people and communities through the emotional power of storytelling.
Social bibliotherapy, or shared reading, is a powerful and transformative practice that uses literature read aloud, reflection and group discussion to support emotional healing, boost mental wellbeing, and build meaningful human connection. By engaging with literature together, participants find comfort, insight, and a renewed sense of belonging. For some this has been life-changing.
“Reading together isn’t just about the words on the page,” says Christopher Smith. “It’s about building bridges between people. For many, coming to our groups is the first time they feel like they’ve been seen and heard in years. Through shared reading, we’re not just sharing literature — we’re sharing lives, what makes us human, and that’s what makes the difference.”
The film dives deep into the profound ways shared reading is breaking down walls of isolation and sparking meaningful human connection. By bringing together people of all backgrounds in a shared experience, Life, the Universe, and Stories showcases how one simple act — reading aloud — can create a ripple effect that transforms entire communities.
“I made this film because I wanted to show the world that stories have the power to do far more than entertain — they can change lives,” says filmmaker Nick Agafonoff. “Through shared reading, I witnessed something truly magical: strangers becoming friends, people finding hope, and communities rebuilding themselves one page at a time. This film is my tribute to that power — and to the incredible people who are making it happen.”
From heartwarming moments to inspiring transformations, the documentary features real stories from participants who’ve experienced profound changes in their lives. Whether it’s elderly individuals reconnecting after years of isolation, those struggling with mental health challenges, or people finding new meaning through the stories of others, Life, the Universe, and Stories reveals the deep emotional and psychological benefits of shared reading and the power that lies within it to help us fight the loneliness epidemic.
This film is not just a documentary — it’s a call to action. As the world grapples with rising loneliness and social isolation, Life, the Universe, and Stories shows that shared reading is more than just a feel-good activity — it’s a life-changing solution — a must-watch for anyone interested in discovering how the power of stories can bring us all closer together.
The film premiered on Saturday 5th July 2025 at the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre in Katoomba, and is available to watch for free on YouTube; search ‘Life, the Universe & Stories’
About Shared Reading NSW
Shared Reading NSW is a pioneering non-profit organisation that’s rewriting the playbook on combating loneliness. By organising community reading groups across New South Wales, Shared Reading NSW is creating powerful connections and offering a safe, welcoming space for people to connect, engage, share, feel heard and belong.
About Authentic Video
Authentic Video, founded by Nick Agafonoff, is a cutting-edge production company specialising in captivating, thought-provoking films that leave a lasting impact. Through creating compelling documentaries, Authentic Video explores the power of human connection and the stories that unite us.
For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact:
Christopher Smith
Email: chris@sharedreadingnsw.com
Phone: 0468 346 834
Website: www.sharedreading.org.au
Nick Agafonoff
Email: nick@authenticvideo.com.au
Phone: 0412 994 642
Website: www.authenticvideo.com.au
For more information and inspiration from Shared Reading and our Life the Universe & Stories blog,
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