‘Tis the season—for reading! Here are some ideas for sharing the gift of reading during the holiday season.

Ask, “What are you reading?’: At gatherings this holiday season, ask what books your family and friends are reading. This may start some interesting discussions. It may also provide some ideas for your own next reading adventure.

Share favorite holiday books with your children: What holiday books from your childhood stir your favorite memories? The Polar Express? The Best Christmas Pageant Ever? How the Grinch Stole Christmas? The Snowy Day? Pass the joy along by reading these books with your children.

Check out the holiday displays at local libraries and bookstores. You may find some titles that become your new favorites.

Visit your neighborhood’s Little Free Library. Take a book and leave one behind. You’ll find something new—and so will another visitor who enjoys the book you left.

Read the book, then watch the movie (or vice versa). The Polar Express, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and A Christmas Story are just a few popular holiday book/movie duos. Compare how the book and movie are alike and how they differ.

Give books as holiday gifts: At first glance, books may not seem like “exciting” presents. However, a carefully chosen book may become a treasured keepsake that a child returns to again and again.

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Giving the gift of reading to others: Since its founding in December 2020, All District Reads has been distributing books and promoting family literacy across the Hampton Roads region. Here are a few highlights:

  • More than 100,000 total books distributed
  • Nearly 60 elementary schools involved in spring 2024 alone
  • Nearly 25,000 families benefitted during both the spring and fall 2024 semesters

Just $12 can add to the impact of our organization. Learn more HERE.