The Trollope Society’s BIG READ returns for its fifth year with a programme of six of Anthony Trollope’s greatest novels, chosen by participants in the BIG READ. Over the course of the year, we’ll explore some of his finest works with participant-led introductions to each set of chapters, followed by a group discussion.

This is a wonderful opportunity to read (or re-read) Trollope alongside a group of like-minded enthusiasts, gaining fresh insights into his enduring themes and characters.

BIG READ 2025 schedule

The Vicar of Bullhampton

• Monday 6 January – Chapters 1–14
• Monday 20 January – Chapters 15–29
• Monday 3 February – Chapters 30–44
• Monday 17 February – Chapters 45–59
• Monday 3 March – Chapters 60–73

Dr Wortle’s School

• Monday 17 March – Chapters 1–12
• Monday 31 March – Chapters 13–24

The Claverings

• Monday 14 April – Chapters 1–12
• Monday 28 April – Chapters 13–24
• Monday 12 May – Chapters 25–36
• Monday 26 May – Chapters 37–48

John Caldigate

• Monday 9 June – Chapters 1–13
• Monday 23 June – Chapters 14–26
• Monday 7 July – Chapters 27–39
• Monday 21 July – Chapters 40–52
• Monday 4 August – Chapters 53–64

The Three Clerks

• Monday 18 August – Chapters 1–12
• Monday 1 September – Chapters 13–24
• Monday 15 September – Chapters 25–36
• Monday 29 September – Chapters 37–48

Ayala’s Angel

• Monday 13 October – Chapters 1–13
• Monday 27 October – Chapters 14–26
• Monday 10 November – Chapters 27–39
• Monday 24 November – Chapters 40–52
• Monday 8 December – Chapters 53–64

Christmas Stories (TBC)

• Monday 22 December – tba

Register free for the BIG READ 2025

We will send you an email with instructions on how to join. Using Zoom is easy, just click on the link in the email and follow the instructions. You can join as many or as few meetings as you like. Please note that you will not be able to join the meeting until 8.00pm (UK time) on the day.

• Register free for the BIG READ 2025

Volunteer to introduce a meeting

Each session begins with an introduction to the assigned chapters. These introductions, led by participants, are a valuable part of the discussions, offering varied interpretations and insights.

If you’d like to volunteer to introduce a meeting, we’d be delighted to hear from you. We welcome all perspectives, and you can be sure of an appreciative audience. The only thing we ask is that you refrain from making any reference to contemporary politics.