Celebrating International Children's Book Day

It’s April 2 and it’s officially International Children’s Book Day. Since 1967, on or around Hans Christian Andersen's birthday on April 2, International Children's Book Day (ICBD) is celebrated to inspire a love of reading and to call attention to children's books all around the world.

Each year a different National Section of International Board on Books for Young People sponsors the day. They pick a theme and create a special poster to celebrate the day. A prominent author from the host country writes a message to the children of the world and a well-known illustrator designs the poster. Many countries have nation-wide celebrations. This year’s poster is created by the IBBY section of the United Arab Emirates. 

The video for today was created by Ashley W. and showcases the poem, “Books” by Nancy White Carlstrom from The Poetry Friday Anthology for Celebrations. Here’s the "poemovie" featuring two young readers reciting "Books" against a background of library shelves FULL of books-- first in English and then in Spanish-- complete with proud smiles at the end!

For this poem and 155 more (all in English AND Spanish), order your own copy of The Poetry Friday Anthology for Celebrations HERE and for more Poetry Celebrations fun, click HERE. And for more on National Poetry Month, click HERE.