We're going on a book hunt: Atherstone is being filled with mystery books ahead of Coventry City of Culture's launch

Books have been waiting for surprised locals to pick them up from the canal, all week.

Some people on social media have seen it as a "clever marketing tool". Others have hoped that something would take off, and that the small town of Atherstone would become a hub for book-swapping.

Today, a local named J Smith said, "A book swap club would be such a good idea, it's a good way to save money but also read recommendations from other people or try books that you wouldn't normally read."

The rules are simple: once you've found a book, claim it as your own, enjoy it (the most important part!) and write a little review of it. After this, hide it for someone else, in plain sight along the canal, in rain-proof packaging.

Some of the most popular spots are the opening to the canal, on Coleshill Road, as the books are more likely to be picked up.

This comes after the old St. Giles' Bookshop sadly closed last year, leaving a hole in book-lovers' hearts, as it sold reasonably-priced secondhand books.

Ahead of the launch of Coventry City of Culture, one bookseller is hoping to give back to the community, and has been giving out secondhand books wrapped in paper.

One of the locals, Gerry, was pleasantly surprised when he found a book wrapped in eco-friendly, brown paper, complete with a postcard.

In an interview with the Nub, he said, "When on a dog walk, I spotted the wrapped book sat on a wall, on the bridge of the canal. It was such a lovely surprise, and made my day as I love second hand books.

"I've just started the book "The Black Country" which was wrapped and I'm hooked already!! I really do appreciate these small acts of kindness from complete strangers."

This book community in Atherstone is hoping to get started properly before the launch of Coventry City of Culture. Some of the local artists who have performed at the Atherstone Stone Fest in the past will be featured in the City's many events.

"Coventry City of Culture expanding to surrounding areas is a much needed step in the right direction! It is so beneficial and will showcase the diversity that the areas have to offer," said Gerry today.

Keep our eyes peeled for further updates with the Atherstone Nub!