Today is World Book Day, first celebrated on 23 April 1995. Also known as World Book and Copyright Day or International Day of the Book, this is an annual event organized by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
So glad my sisters and I grew up among books; our mother, Mrs. Irene Gaines-Jones, was a sixth grade teacher and school librarian, and I’m remembering CHILDCRAFT as a highlight; we had a complete set, dusty blue binding with gold text (maybe?); filled with child stuff: poems, rhymes, how things work, art around us, etc. BUT, of course, we had to use our brown Crayola to make the faces relevant. The one and only time Mama actually encouraged us to mark in books. At least those times have changed.
“READ ME, but please don’t feed me!” Grew up with that refrain on the little metal sign above. Only recently did I bother to READ the text printed on the sign’s bottom edge: “From New Method Poster Contest by Edward Spahr, Age 10, Overlook Elem. School, Pittsburgh, PA.
And the other sign: “Books are to enjoy, NOT to destroy.” by Vera Paine, Age 10, Antonito Public School Antonito, CO.
Where are you now, Edward and Vera? Do YOU still have this little sign commemorating your love of books 50+ years ago? Probably not, because unlike me, you’re not a saver-of-just-about-every-thing.
One hundred countries observe World Book Day. Mark your calendar for next year ~ Thanks UNESCO…
“Our Books & Our Pens are The Most Powerful Weapons.”
Malala Yousafzai