Bellefonte Reads to kick off ‘One Book, One Bellefonte’ with event, free books
.jpeg "The 2020 One Book, One Bellefonte title is the middle grade fiction novel “Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus” by Dusti Bowling. This year’s companion text for younger readers is “Just Ask!” by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.")
The mission of Bellefonte Reads is to foster a love of literacy in the community and put quality books in the hands of children and families. At the heart of the group’s mission is the desire to bring the Bellefonte community together around one book. Now in its sixth year, Bellefonte Reads, under the guidance of a committee of teachers, librarians, parents and community members, is prepping for its 2020 “One Book, One Bellefonte” kickoff. The event will be held on Thursday, Jan. 23rd from 6-7:30 p.m. in the main lobby of Bellefonte Area High School. Community members of all ages are encouraged to stop by the event to pick up a free book and participate in a variety of engaging activities centered around this year’s book selection.
The 2020 One Book, One Bellefonte title is the middle grade fiction novel “Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus” by Dusti Bowling. The tale tells the story of 13-year old Aven Green, who was born without arms. When Aven’s family moves across the country to take over a rundown Western theme park, she’s faced with starting over at a new school. Aven quickly builds friendships with a few students who have their own differences, and together, they solve a mystery related to Aven’s birth. Chosen for its strong message about embracing who you are, readers will enjoy this humorous, yet inspiring tale. Limited copies of “Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus,” the sequel to this year’s featured book, will also be provided.
The committee will also be giving away copies of the newly released picture book “Just Ask!,” this year’s companion text for younger readers. The story, written by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and illustrated by Rafael López, celebrates the differences that make children unique. In the book, Justice Sotomayor encourages readers to “Just Ask” when they encounter others who may be different from them. Children with challenges ranging from blindness to nut allergies are introduced in the story. Complemented with beautiful illustrations by López, the book has an important message for humans of all ages — be brave, be different, be you!
Over the years, community participation in Bellefonte Reads events has steadily grown. From 100 families taking home books in 2014 to almost 400 in 2019, the committee is building excitement about reading again. In all, a total of 1,100 books will be provided to the community for free at the Jan. 23 event. Mark your calendars!
Want to know more about this year’s featured books? Visit http://bit.ly/BellefonteBook2020 to view personalized videos created just for Bellefonte Reads by author Dusti Bowling and illustrator Rafael López.
For more information about Bellefonte Reads:
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In the case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, Jan. 30th.