Spreading the Love of Reading with World Book Night

Last January, I was reading a book blog (sorry, can't remember which one) and it mentioned something called World Book Night.  I'd never heard of it, but went to their website to read more.  It's a way to spread the love of reading, person to person.  They were looking for people to be givers - that would go out in their community on World Book Night - April 23rd - to give away books to people who were nonreaders. 

I decided to apply.  My community is a tiny rural community, filled mostly with farmers and retired folks, and I thought it would be nice to spread some reading joy.  The World Book Night site offered 30 different books to choose from, many of which I had read.  I chose the book Peace Like A River because I felt like it would appeal to the folks where I live. 

 I was so excited to be accepted into the program.  Then I had to figure out where to give them away.  On a Monday night.  You know what's open on a Monday night in the little town (and I do use the term town loosely)?  Two gas stations and a Subway.  I didn't want to give them away at a gas station, so I contacted the owners of the Subway, and they were happy to have me there.  They even said that next year, if they knew in advance, they'd put it on their marquis to advertise it.

When the first two people I offered books to (both of whom were perhaps what some might consider 'good old boys') rejected me, I thought it was going to be a rather long night!  But after that everyone I approached was excited to get a free book.  They couldn't believe they were free!  People kept asking how much they cost, and saying you just don't get things for free anymore.  A few mistakenly assumed I was the author.  One, a teacher, was thrilled to see someone out promoting reading.  Many were intrigued, when I explained briefly how the novel unfolds (it is a wonderful read).  And I felt good to be bringing the happiness of a good book to random people in my region.  I hope that they crack open Peace Like A River and don't put it down until they are done! 

If you are an avid reader who would like to spread the love of reading in your community, you might check out the website and apply next year! 

Disclaimer: I was not required to blog about this in exchange for being part of this program (and I did not receive anything for doing so) - I just wanted to share the information to help World Book Night get the information out for next year.  I think it's a wonderful thing that they are doing.

On a side note, a special thanks to those of you who entered The Tissue Box Challenge!  First place was Nouveau Soccer Mom and second place was Teach Beside Me.  Congrats!