Oh D.E.A.R.!

From the blog of Nicholas C. Rossis, author of science fiction, the Pearseus epic fantasy series and children's booksD.E.A.R. stands for “Drop Everything and Read“. This is a month-long celebration of reading designed to remind folks of all ages to make reading a priority activity in their lives. With declining literacy among children and adults, it is now more important than ever for reading to be encouraged and cherished as a worthy past time.

D.E.A.R. programs have been held nationwide on April 12th in honor of Beverly Cleary’s birthday, since she first wrote about D.E.A.R. in Ramona Quimby, Age 8. Inspired by letters from readers sharing their enthusiasm for the D.E.A.R. activities implemented in their schools, Mrs. Cleary decided to give the same experience to Ramona and her classmates. As D.E.A.R. has grown in popularity and scope, the program has expanded to span the entire month of April . . . offering classrooms and communities additional time to celebrate!

Can D.E.A.R. be celebrated anytime?

Every day should be “Drop Everything and Read”! The goal of the program is to prompt people to make reading a regular part of their routine . . . whether they’re reading solo or together with their classmates, parents, or friends. So, go ahead and join the millions of families, schools, bookstores, and communities who have participated throughout the years and pledge to “drop” what you’re doing in order to read a good book.

What materials are available for D.E.A.R.?

On the Drop Everything and Read website, one can find common core-aligned downloadables, digital assets, activity ideas, reading lists, and more to help you plan, promote, and host your own “Drop Everything and Read” celebration. Don’t forget; the goal is to have fun while promoting reading among the community!

How can I participate?

As an organization, library, school, or bookstore, you can participate by hosting a “Drop Everything and Read” event at your location (or elsewhere) during the month of April. As an individual, you can participate by attending an event in your community or by reading at home with your children, siblings, or friends. As an author, you can let people know about the D.E.A.R. and share your books on any of the many events that are scheduled for April.

As for me, I am participating on April 12th in an Fantasy and Science Fiction Network (FSFNet)-sponsored event with two books of my Pearseus: Rise of the Prince (book 1) and The Power of Six: Six (plus one) Science Fiction Short Stories, the price of which has been lowered to just 99c for the entire month of April for the occasion. To find out more about the event, visit the FSFNet DEAR sale page!

And of course, you can still read my children’s book, Runaway Smile, online for free!