Every year on March 2nd, families, educators, and book lovers across the country celebrate Read Across America Day, kicking off National Reading Month. This day is a beautiful reminder of how stories have the power to ignite imagination, inspire learning, and create lasting connections.
For me, reading has always been more than just words on a page—it’s a legacy of love, a gift passed down from my Aunt Donna Aakjar.
The Power of a Storyteller
Aunt Donna was more than just an educator—she was a storyteller, a librarian, and a champion of books. She started her career teaching fifth grade but soon found her true passion as a librarian, creating warm, welcoming spaces for students to explore the world through books. She believed every child deserved a story that made them feel seen, inspired, and valued.
One of her former students once wrote, “She read to us with such joy.” And that was exactly who she was—someone who could turn words into magic, filling the room with adventure, curiosity, and wonder.
Even after retirement, she couldn’t step away from books. She worked in the children’s department at Oblong Books, sharing her love of reading with new generations. And in our family, she made books feel like treasured gifts, each one chosen with care and meaning.
Reading: A Gift We Can All Share
Aunt Donna taught me that reading with a child isn’t just about literacy—it’s about connection. Whether it’s snuggling up with a bedtime story, exploring a new adventure together, or sharing a book that sparks a meaningful conversation, reading builds lifelong bonds.
As Read Across America Day reminds us, we all have the opportunity to be that person who instills a love of reading in a child’s heart.
So, here’s our invitation to you: Read with your child today. Read with your students. Read a story that makes you laugh, think, or dream. Because in the pages of a book, anything is possible.
“Adventures Start in the Library” Giveaway!
To celebrate Read Across America Day, we’re launching a special “Adventures Start in the Library” contest! We’re giving away a complete set of Labyrinth Adventures Storybooks, a collection designed to spark curiosity, compassion, and joy in young readers.
Simply visit our website for more information.
Keep the Story Going
Aunt Donna’s legacy lives on in every child who finds joy in a book, every teacher who brings stories to life, and every librarian who helps a student discover their next favorite read.
This National Reading Month, let’s honor the teachers, librarians, and loved ones who showed us the magic of books—by passing that magic on.
Happy reading!
