First Book

    As a reading specialist, a mother, and a writer, there are few gifts I consider more valuable than the gift of a book. My children have grown up surrounded by books. In the womb, stories were read to them. One of my baby showers was a book shower. It is hard for me to imagine life without books.
    In my humble opinion, I believe all children should have access to high-quality books. All children, not just the ones who can afford them. Now I am certainly not naive. I understand that many children lack basic needs, i.e. nutritious food, clothing, adequate housing. Again, as an educator, these are issues I face daily. I still believe that our students need and deserve books. Their brains and bodies need to be fed. Sadly, 80% of the preschools and after school programs serving children in need do not have a single book for the children they work with.
     This is where the amazing work of First Book comes into play. To date, First Book has provided more than 90 million books to children in need. Yes, 90 million books! First Book currently serves over 35,000 schools nationwide. Their goal is not to fight illiteracy but to end it. Music to my ears!
     As you consider your holiday gift-giving this year, please consider including First Book on your list. Your $10.00 donation will provide four brand new books for children, perhaps even youngsters in your neighborhood. Please visit their site, talk to a friend or co-worker about  First Book, and encourage others to do the same.

 First Book