According to a new survey, Prince Harry’s memoir “Spare” is seemingly Britain’s favorite “toilet read.” The Duke of Sussex’s book topped a chart of the United Kingdom’s most popular books to read in the bathroom, beating out titles ranging from George Orwell’s “1984” to Stephen Hawking’s “A Brief History of Time.”
The list came from research that the toilet roll brand Cushelle commissioned. Besides finding out the favorite “toilet read,” the brand found that many use bathroom breaks for more than the obvious reason, from scrolling through the news to taking calls.
Psychologist says Prince Harry’s memoir is ‘engaging’ enough for ideal toilet-reading
Per The Mirror, Prince Harry’s memoir “Spare” is the U.K.’s favorite “toilet read,” and behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings explained why.
Hemmings worked on the study and explained, “The toilet is one of the few places where people feel briefly removed from demands and social expectations, so they often gravitate toward books that are immersive, conversational or even a little provocative.”
She added, “A memoir like ‘Spare’ fits that perfectly, it’s easy to dip in and out of, emotionally engaging, driven by personal storytelling.” Hemmings also noted that it is “no coincidence that it’s title could also be interpreted as precious ‘spare’ time!”
Additionally, she connected the habit to the pace of daily life. Hemmings explained, “Modern life is overwhelmingly noisy – digitally, socially, emotionally. People are overstimulated and under-rested.” She further added, “Behind a closed door, you have permission to pause.”
The survey suggests many take full advantage of that pause. In that, Brits reportedly visit the toilet six times a day and spend a little over five minutes per trip. The research also revealed that some admit to taking extra bathroom breaks, including parents looking for a breather.
In the end, people want short escapes, and they pick something that keeps them turning pages. And right now, that book happens to be Prince Harry’s “Spare.”
Originally reported by Ishika Mishra on RealityTea.
