Dear Global Read Aloud participants,

It is hard to believe that as I write this, there are parts of the world just waking up to Monday, October 1st.  The day that marks the kick off to the 9th annual Global Read Aloud!  Over the next six weeks, more than 1.5 million kids will get to experience a read aloud.  From little kids who crowd around their teacher for story-time to all of those big kids who hope their teacher reads just one more page; soon our adventure begins.

I hope that every person involved will have a moment, a moment in their classrooms or homes where they get to sit and listen to incredible stories, hopefully, sit in the quiet and wonder, and then have meaningful conversations that maybe, just maybe, will help them see the world as filled with human beings who deserve our understanding, kindness, and support.

This year instead of selecting one charity to direct donations to, I encourage you to find a charity that speaks to the message of the books you are reading.  Even if your students and you can only contribute a little bit of time, money, or care, think of the difference that all of us together can make for others.  Let me know what you choose.

I hope that this journey is one that is worth your time.  That your children will love it as much as I have the past many years. Make it work for you, make it worth your time.  Don’t sweat the small things and just enjoy the ride.

A few things to note:

• Elana Arnold’s videos will be posted on this blog for the world to see.  If you want to send her a question to have her answer it, go here to send them.
• Aisha Saeed’s videos will be posted here 
• The shared resources can be found here – please add your ideas
• All information such as hashtags, wheat to read when and such can be found here 
• My personal blog, including where I will be speaking and such is here 

Nine years ago I dreamed that the world would be a little smaller due to a shared read aloud.  Nine years ago I dreamed of the power of books and all that they could accomplish.  Now we find out if that dream can come true once again.  Thank you for believing in my dream and happy reading.

All of my best,

Pernille