Join readers around the globe in celebrating World Book Day on April 23. The mission of World Book Day is to change lives through the love of books and shared reading of stories. This year’s theme is dedicated to all readers around the world. “You Are a Reader” hopes to send the message of inclusion no matter the education or economic background of the reader. And you don't have to just read books—daily reading can consist of reading social media posts and text messages on our phones, or binge-watching tv shows. Spending just 10-30 minutes a day reading a book or sharing stories can make a crucial and transformative difference in our lives.
Books are empowering. They can enlighten our thinking and increase our empathy to understand other points of view. Reading not only benefits the mind but the body and soul as well. It is essential to our well-being. Research studies indicate the power of reading can strengthen the brain’s cognitive abilities, lower our risk of stress-related illnesses, and help us get a better night’s sleep. Books can help keep our minds sharp and our bodies strong and healthy. Thomas Jefferson said it best, “I cannot live without books…”.
For more information on the health benefits of reading, check out this article from Healthline.
Activities to do to celebrate World Book Day:
- Discover your local library (that's us!)
- Give audiobooks a try
- Visit a bookshop
- Make a summer reading list
- Rediscover your bookshelf
- Join a book club
- Create a fun bookmark
For Kids
Look Where We Live! - Five young friends spend the day traveling around their neighborhood learning about the people and places that make up their community and what it means to be a part of one.
Last Stop on Market Street - An energetic ride through a bustling city highlights the wonderful perspective only grandparent and grandchild can share and is an inclusive inspiration to be kind and empathetic.
We Are Together - Each of us is wonderful and special on our own. But when we team up with friends, family, and even those we don’t know, amazing things can happen.
All Are Welcome - Follow a group of children throughout a day in their school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms and celebrate each other's traditions.
For Adults
The Art of Gathering - At a time when getting together is more important than ever, the author suggests a human-centered approach to gathering that will help everyone create more meaningful and memorable experiences.
More Together Than Alone - A compelling testament to the power of community and why it is so essential in our lives, now more than ever.
The People We Keep - A novel about connections, finding empathy and learning acceptance through hope and love.
Built to Belong - This fresh, inspiring call to community and connection from an entrepreneur and leader is perfect for anyone feeling alone and ready to set off on a journey to true belonging.
The Read-aloud Family - The stories we read—and the conversations we have about them—help shape family traditions, create lifelong memories, and become part of our legacy. Reading aloud not only has the power to change a family—it has the power to change the world.
Add a comment to: World Book Day