It is a day to celebrate the joy of reading. Read Across America Day motivates children of all ages to find adventure, journey to different places, and enjoy what books can bring into their lives.
Created by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1997, it has become the nation’s largest reading celebration. The day is observed annually on March 2, although schools across the country use the whole month to explore reading with students.
Reading is for everyone!
March 2 is the Birthday of the legendary Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, children’s book author. Known for his books Green Eggs and Ham, Put Me in the Zoo, and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish,
Many local area schools take the week to dress as Dr. Seuss characters, create green eggs, or have a birthday party for the author.
It is also a time when community members come into the school to read their favorite books.
Now Habersham’s Nora Almazan was among those who read to students at Level Grove Elementary School in Cornelia. A journalist and author, Nora recently published a children’s book with local illustrator Jason Fowler. Jennie Jenkins’ Superpowers: A Book About Autism was published in January. It tells the story of a young girl whose autism gives her unique abilities. Her mother makes her a red cape with the letter A on it and her classmates learn how very special Jennie is.
Almazan read her book to several classes and shared with them what it is like to write a book and what an illustrator does.
Improves Literacy
Through Read Across America Day, the NEA hopes to improve literacy and cultural awareness in the United States. Many of Dr. Seuss’s books are examples of bringing diverse characters together to solve issues and ultimately gain acceptance and love for one another.
This special day also aims to build community. Schools, libraries, and other community events are held that bring people together with the common theme of reading and its importance to society.
So, join in the fun. Grab a book or two and sit down to travel to exotic places, learn a new trade, or just have a laugh. Encourage your children to read by your example. Visit your local library and volunteer to read to others.
And, maybe, enjoy some green eggs and ham in honor of Dr. Seuss.
SEE ALSO
