You have permission to read on D.E.A.R. Day.

      Do you know about this day?
     D.E.A.R. stands for Drop Everything and Read.  It's usually a time when schools let kids read and enjoy the books they want, just for the pleasure of reading and with no questions asked!
     The aim of this nationwide initiative is to encourage families to designate a special time to "drop everything and read" at home.  But I say...don't read just at home!  Read in the park or Burger King or anywhere your kids would enjoy hearing a good story.  (Well, without disturbing someone else, of course.)
     The concept of D.E.A.R. is referenced in the second chapter of Newbery Medal-winning author Beverly Cleary's book Ramona Quimby, Age 8.  Ramona is the campaign spokesperson.  This day, April 12th, also shares Beverly's birthday - she will be 96 today - and she has been honored with the celebration on her birthday ever since.
     The partnership effort is huge - Reading Rockets, the National Education Association (NEA), the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA), the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), First Book, the Newspaper Association of American Foundation, the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC), Read Kiddo Read, Walden Media, and HarperCollins Children's Books.
     So, why not come to the library and check out a few of the Ramona books.  They have a ton of history and lots of kids through all the grades love to read the Ramona books.
     Today, take at least 30 minutes to put aside all your distractions and enjoy books as a family.  Stop whatever you're doing, pick up a good book, and join all of us who will be celebrating National Drop Everything and Read Day.
     You might even make it a habit.