One Book Habersham ready to launch new reading season

Habersham County Director of Elementary Schools Dr. Susan Davis isn’t ready to unveil this year’s book title—she’s keeping it under wraps for now. The big reveal will take place at the One Book Habersham kickoff at 11 a.m. on Feb. 26, 2025, at the Clarkesville Public Library. The public is invited to attend. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)

The 2025 One Book Habersham is gearing up to kick off the new reading season. Together We Read has a launch meeting at the Clarkesville Library at 11 am on Wednesday, February 26, when this year’s book and author will be revealed. One Book Habersham (OBH) is part of a county-wide movement to build community through reading stories together.

“The One Book Habersham program is a wonderful reminder that stories have the ability to unite and inspire us,” said Habersham County Schools Director of Elementary Schools Dr. Susan Davis. “When neighbors come together around a single book, we enjoy rich conversations through shared experience and reaffirm our belief in the collective power of literacy and community.”

One Book Habersham

After the kick-off, 500 copies of the chosen book will be distributed to schools, businesses, medical offices, libraries, churches, book clubs, and restaurants in the community for children and adults to read and share.

In 2024, the featured book was “Little Red and the Big Bad Wolf (Editor)” by Shanda McCloskey. The community was invited to read and share this book, with copies available at public libraries, schools, and local businesses.

The initiative culminated in a visit from the author and illustrator, Shanda McCloskey, who engaged with students and the community, sharing insights into her work and the importance of literacy.

Last year, it is estimated that more than 5,000 people read Li’l Red and the Big Bad Editor.

In addition to the kickoff, the community is also invited to meet and hear the author at BSG Coffeehouse on April 15 from 5:15 p.m. – 7 p.m. A 15% discount will be given by BSG on all food and drink purchases.

Prior to the community event, the author will make a virtual presentation to HCS elementary and middle school students. On April 16, second and fifth-grade students will gather at the Habersham Central Performing Arts Center for two in-person presentations. On April 17, her final day in the community, the author will meet with and present to Habersham County’s Young Georgia Authors.

The sponsoring partners for One Book Habersham are the Habersham County School System, Volunteers for Literacy, and Habersham County Libraries.

For more information or to get a copy of the book, visit www.onebookhabersham.org.