Our Story
The Founder
The London Book Clinic was founded by me: Gemma Aldridge.
Throughout my life I’ve been an avid reader and student of literature, from poetry to novels; letters to diaries; works of philosophy and nonfiction to inspirational memoirs.
As a journalist and former national newspaper editor, I’ve had a high-pressure career, dominated by deadlines, budgets, and round-the-clock screen time
Finding Strength in Literature
Like so many of us, I’ve also encountered periods that have been challenging to my mental wellbeing. And during those times, I’ve always found reading to be a hugely powerful tool.
Literature can offer comfort, understanding, room for reflection – on yourself and on the world. It can bring clarity and direction to disorder, and most importantly, it can show us that whatever we are facing, we are not alone. There is always a voice somewhere of someone who has felt the same way, and committed it to the written word for us to enjoy.
A New Chapter
In 2024 I took a leap. I quit my job as an editor and I went back to study for a Masters in Creative Writing at Oxford University. Alongside my writing, I took an accredited course in bibliotherapy, learning to transform my extensive knowledge of literature into a therapeutic tool to help others who, like me, are seeking sanctuary in the chaos of life.
London Book Clinic Today
The London Book Clinic was born and we are now proud to provide bibliotherapy sessions for clients at all points in their lives.
Our one-to-one sessions and tailor-made reading lists can help you to escape the pressures of the modern world and rediscover the pleasure and power of reading. They can broaden your horizons if you’re in a rut, help you to gain new perspectives as you navigate life changes and bring a little joy to your daily life.
They also make a wonderful gift for a loved one, so treat yourself or visit our shop to give the gift of bibliotherapy.
