An Ode to Reading
March is a pretty special month for book lovers! That’s because it’s when we celebrate Read Across America, a nationwide reading celebration that encourages kids to dive into the wonderful world of books. It’s a time to make reading fun, exciting, and something everyone can enjoy. But what exactly is Read Across America, and why do we celebrate it?
A Birthday Party for Reading!
Read Across America started way back in 1998, organized by the National Education Association (NEA). That means it’s been around for over 25 years! The idea behind it was simple: to get kids excited about reading. The kickoff date, March 2nd, was chosen because it’s also the birthday of one of the most beloved children’s authors of all time: Dr. Seuss! While the focus has grown to include diverse authors and stories, the core goal remains the same: to inspire a love of reading in children of all ages.
While March 2nd is the official day, Read Across America is really celebrated all month long! Schools, libraries, and community centers across the country host special events, book readings, and activities to get kids hooked on books. Think of it as a giant, month-long birthday party for reading!
Finding Your Own Way to Celebrate
There are tons of ways to celebrate Read Across America! You could visit your local library to discover new books, create a reading nook in your home that’s cozy and inviting, or even dress up as your favorite book character. Reading aloud to younger siblings or friends is a fantastic way to share the joy of reading. You could even write your own stories or poems to celebrate!
Speaking of poems, Read Across America is the perfect time to explore the magical world of poetry! Poetry can be silly, serious, thought-provoking, and always fun. It’s like music made of words, and it comes in all shapes and sizes. From short, snappy rhymes to longer, more elaborate verses, there’s a poem out there for everyone.
Poetry Books to Spark Your Imagination
Here are a few fantastic poetry books to read during Read Across America (or anytime!):
- Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein. A true classic! Silverstein’s poems are funny, whimsical, and full of imagination. You’ll find yourself laughing out loud and maybe even seeing the world in a new way.
- The New Kid on the Block by Jack Prelutsky. This was the first “big book” by the first Children’s Poet Laureate, Jack Prelutsky, filled with quirky characters and thought-provoking ideas and wordplay.
- Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson (the first Young People’s Poet Laureate). This award-winning book tells the story of Woodson’s childhood through beautiful and moving poems. It’s a powerful and inspiring read.
- Out of Wonder: Celebrating Poets and Poetry by Kwame Alexander with Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth. A wonderful collection of poems that celebrate other amazing poets! It’s a great way to discover new voices and styles.
- Hip Hop Speaks to Children edited by Nikki Giovanni. A groundbreaking collection that brings the energy and rhythm of hip hop to young readers through poetry. It can open a door for students who might not know what poetry can be.
Making Poetry Your Own
Don’t just read poetry—try writing your own! Think about things you love, things that make you sad, or things that make you laugh. Let your imagination run wild and don’t worry about being “perfect.” The most important thing is to have fun and express yourself. Try playing with different sounds and rhythms. Use all your senses—what do you see, hear, smell, taste, and feel? Let those sensations inspire your words.
Read Across America is all about celebrating the joy of reading. So grab a book (or a collection of poems!), find a cozy spot, and get lost in the magic of words. Happy reading!
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