National Drop Everything and Read Day is a day where families are encouraged to take at least 30 minutes to put aside all distractions and enjoy books together. This annual event takes place on April 12 which is the birthday of author Beverly Cleary. When Beverly Cleary’s children were young, they participated in D.E.A.R. at school. Their interest and enthusiasm for the event inspired Beverly Cleary to give the same experience to Ramona Quimby the main character in Ramona Quimby, Age 8. This year the library, along with some of the community, will be celebrating D.E.A.R. Day by reading aloud some of our favorite books. If you’d like to celebrate D.E.A.R. Day here’s how you can join in on the fun:

Celebrate DEAR on April 12 by reading a book of your choice and enjoying a library provided snack with your family at home. Send a photo of you and your family reading to youthservices@lindenhurstlibrary.org by April 15 and be entered to win our DEAR book bundle. Happy reading!

Registration begins March 15. Pick up your snacks between April 4 and April 12.

Not sure what book to choose? Reading Rockets offers Themed Booklists here. These booklists are for ages birth-12 and include topics such as fairy tales, animals, history and more!

When you’re reading, try doing a few of these things:

-Fix some hot chocolate

-Share some funny lines that you find

-Talk about the characters and who you like/dislike

-Talk about your favorite part of the book

Another thing you can do is visit Reading Rockets. They are considered a founding partner of D.E.A.R Day.

On their website you can find more ideas to keep your family engaged. Happy Reading!