Did you know that today is International Children’s Book Day? Also known as ICBD, this special day was first celebrated in 1967 in conjunction with Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday on April 2. Best known for his fairly tales, the Danish writer was an author and poet of several different genres.

Though Hallmark has not capitalized on this little known holiday, schools and libraries celebrate ICBD in a variety of ways. Some schools and libraries invite authors and illustrators to share their books with children, while others hold writing contests or create posters. The main purpose of the holiday is to celebrate books, and books are definitely worth celebrating!

Children’s books are a rich resource for both children and parents. Books provide hours of bonding between parents and children while little ones sit in laps and listen to stories being read. Books designed for beginning readers help children to increase their vocabulary and reading skills while enjoying a fun story. First chapter books and middle grade readers take children to far away places as their imaginations soar. Non fiction books are educational and help a child gain information on any topic he or she wishes to explore. And some books are just fun to read! One time my son brought home a children’s joke book from the library. As we sat together and took turns reading the jokes, the laughter and memories we shared were priceless.

As a children’s author, I was happy to find out about ICBD. We celebrate many wonderful people and events, why not celebrate books? And those of us who write children’s books that teach little ones about God, know that these books have an eternal purpose.

Whether it’s reading to learn or reading to laugh, the important thing is to read! If you have children in your home, make reading a part of your every day routine.

Here’s to celebrating ICBD every day of the year!

Crystal