International Children’s Book Day
International Children’s’ Book Day is on or about April 2, the birthday of Danish author Hans Christian Anderson. The goal of the day is to create and further in children a love of reading. The day also spotlights children’s books such as those written by Hans Christian Anderson.
His most famous fairy tales include “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Little Mermaid,” “The Nightingale,” “The Snow Queen,” “The Ugly Duckling,” “The Little Match Girl,” and “Thumbelina.”
Helping a child choose a favorite story:
The library web resource, Alexandria, lists 23 recommended children’s books including favorites such as The Giving Tree, Charlotte’s Web, and Madeline. The list also includes recommended graphic novels such as Awesome Man and Wonderstruck.
History
Since 1967, the sponsoring organization International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) decides on a theme for the day and selects a member region to host the day. That region chooses local authors from the host country to write a message to children of the world. An illustrator designs a poster to go with the theme, and the material is used to promote children’s books and reading.
Activities around the world on this day include library scavenger hunts, writing competitions, announcements of book awards, and events with authors of children’s literature.
