WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. – The second annual Wayne County Reads initiative is giving away 1,200 free books to the community.
According to Becky Jewison of Every Child Can Read, the goal of the Wayne County Reads program is to encourage literacy by getting people throughout the community to read and discuss the same book.
“The whole idea is just literacy and get it out there and make people think more from the book, talk more about books, and just read,” Jewison said.
This year’s featured book is Crenshaw by Catherine Applegate, a novel that explores the challenges faced by a young boy named Jackson as his family struggles with homelessness.
“The book explains a complex situation of a young man facing homelessness,” Jewison said. “The wonderful thing about the book is this young man, Jackson, calls upon his imaginary friend from when he was younger to help him deal with this emotional situation.”
“It’s funny and kind of magical and it’s got a lot to it. It’s really a lovely book,” she added.
Copies of the book are available in English and Spanish at eight locations throughout Wayne County. This includes all county libraries, as well as Two Sisters: Books & More, Twice Read Books, and the Northeastern School Administration Building.
Jewison said the book provides an opportunity for families to discuss difficult topics that affect many communities.
“It’s a great way to kind of say, ‘Hey, how do you feel about this? What’s it like at your house? Have you ever even talked to a friend who’s going through something?’ That’s our hope,” she said.
Community events are planned throughout the summer to support the reading initiative. Beginning June 19, members of the public will have opportunities to spend time with adoptable shelter cats during a themed event connected to the book.
On June 25 at 5:30 p.m., Bibbly Boo Toy & Candy Shoppe will host a book discussion featuring prizes and activities inspired by the novel, including jellybeans, which play a role in the story.
More information about the Wayne County Reads Initiative is available at everychildcanread.org.
Image source: Every Child Can Read Facebook
