The Funniest Children’s Books by Comedians
Reading to kids is a great experience, but when it comes to children’s books, the jokes often fall flat. Thankfully, many of our favorite comedians from Jeff Foxworthy to Jerry Seinfeld are able to tell great stories in the voice of our favorite funny people. Check them out for yourself and vote for your favorite!
Reading Rockets: How to Read with a Squiggly Baby (or Toddler!)
Parents know they should read with their child every day. But reading together requires that your baby or toddler will actually sit still long enough for a book! If you’ve got a squiggler in your house, see if these tips help your reading time go a little more smoothly.
Mortar Board Virtual Book Drive Underway!
Illiteracy is linked to nearly every major socioeconomic crisis today. Since 2002, Mortar Board has made a national commitment to combat illiteracy with the “Reading is Leading” national project. Join Mortar Board in their third annual Virtual Book Drive challenge, held in conjunction with First Book, running through November 12.
Announcing the 2010 Hugo Award Winners
The Hugo Awards are awarded for excellence in the field of science fiction and fantasy writing. The awards have been given since 1953 by the annual World Science Fiction Convention (the “Worldcon”). The awards are run by and voted on by fans. Check out nominees, winners and more information about this award by visiting www.thehugoawards.org
On July 24th I was thrilled to launch the 3rd Annual Mortar Board Virtual Book Drive Challenge at the 2010 Mortar Board National Conference in Chicago. Mortar Board is a national honor society recognizing college seniors for their exemplary scholarship, leadership and service. For the 3rd consecutive year, Mortar Board chapters across the country will be raising funds for the purchase of books by programs serving children in need in their communities.
In addition to launching the Virtual Book Drive during the “Reading is Leading” luncheon, I had the honor of presenting Mortar Board with a First Book Hero Award for their ongoing support and commitment to literacy, distributing more than 26,000 books to kids in need across the country. The Hope College chapter was also honored for their leadership and competitive spirit for being the top fundraising chapter for the last two years.
I’m excited to work with Mortar Board again this year to build on their past success and distribute even more books to the children who need them most! Support your local Mortar Board chapter today by making a donation at www.firstbook.org/mortarboard.
This past weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the Mortar Board National Conference in Columbus, OH, as an officer of the organization and see firsthand the excitement created by First Book presenters Erin and Nicole. First Book’s presence at the conference was focused on introducing the Virtual Book Drive and its goal of $30,000 raised by Mortar Board chapters across the nation.
Mortar Board is a national senior honor society comprised of top scholars and campus leaders united to serve. In 2002, “Reading is Leading” was established as the organization’s national project with a mission to
serve literacy needs across the nation, making Mortar Board a perfect match for First Book to partner with. With 226 chapters across the country, the $30,000 goal equates to a little over $132 per college campus—an aim which is both attainable and easily able to be surpassed.
First Book’s attendance was felt in all aspects of the conference. Their booth was positioned directly along the main conference walkway and was continually attracting interested campus leaders to learn how their Mortar Board chapter could become a contributing member of First Book’s mission. The Virtual Book Drive was referenced in all discussion regarding Mortar Board’s commitment to “Reading is Leading” and Erin and Nicole were given the opportunity to host two conference sessions on incorporating First Book into individual chapters and campuses.
Most visible was First Book’s impact during the “Reading is Leading” Luncheon. This signified the official kickoff of the Virtual Book Drive and proved to be an eye-opening hour uncovering the overwhelming need that exists with children’s literacy and visible impact Mortar Board members can make in fulfilling First Book’s mission. There was notable reaction in the audience to sections of the presentation, including to children bringing the telephone book into school as their only reading material and the joy expressed on children’s faces after receiving their very own book.
My excitement at my chapter’s potential to participate in the Virtual Book Drive was mirrored by a majority of the chapter delegates I came into contact with, and in true college student form was further spurred by a competitive spirit. In an assembly of students who are already dedicated to serving others and have the leadership capabilities to do so successfully, all Mortar Board members needed was a cause to commit their efforts to—First Book provided just that for us this weekend.
