Attention all readers, everywhere! October is City’s First Readers (CFR) Month and that means it is time for the world’s largest shared literacy experience of the year! On Thursday, October 24, 2024, City’s First Readers will celebrate Read for the Record at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum.
Founded by Jumpstart, one of CFR’s 17 partners, Read for the Record is a global reading experience like no other. Since the initiative started almost two decades ago, more than 28 million people have participated in this reading extravaganza and the number grows each year. In 2023, 2.3 million people from 11 countries and 50 U.S. States and Territories shined a light on early literacy.
This year’s story, Piper Chen Sings is co-authored by award-winning actress and singer Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran and illustrated by Qin Leng. Thousands of schools, libraries, and community organizations will celebrate early literacy by reading this empowering story of self-expression, overcoming self-doubt, and the ways family relationships can support us.
I am thrilled and grateful that Jumpstart has chosen Piper Chen Sings for their Read for the Record campaign this year. I have often been asked, ‘If you could say anything to your younger self, what would it be?’ Piper Chen Sings is certainly an answer to that question. This book comes straight from the heart and is inspired by my own life and experiences—a little girl who loves to sing but is overwhelmed with nervousness about singing in front of others. Piper Chen Sings is our first book, and Maris and I are so proud to share this heartwarming story with the world. I hope Piper gives comfort to readers who may be navigating their own complicated feelings and inspires them to pursue the things in life that give them joy.
-Phillipa Soo
Themes of building confidence and embracing family history in Piper Chen Sings are sure to inspire, connect, and empower young children and adults all year long.
Don't miss out on a day filled with stories, smiles, and fun - a spectacular shared human experience!
Register now! Families who attend will receive a free copy of the book along with a fun book kit. They can also enter the “CFR Challenge” on Facebook and Instagram.
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