March isn’t just another month—it’s a celebration of literacy, imagination, and the joy of storytelling. Read Across America Week kicks off on March 2nd, the birthday of the beloved Dr. Seuss, and extends through March 6th, inspiring children and adults alike to embrace the magic of books. Organized by the National Education Association (NEA), this nationwide initiative encourages reading while highlighting it’s lifelong benefits.
The History of Read Across America Week
The love of reading has shaped societies for centuries. What was once a privilege for the wealthy and educated is now a universal skill that empowers people of all ages. Since the invention of the written word, literature has evolved, giving rise to unforgettable authors whose works have stood the test of time.
One such literary giant is Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss. With over 600 million books sold, his whimsical rhymes and colorful illustrations have helped generations of children fall in love with reading. But his contributions extend beyond children’s literature—he was also a cartoonist, political illustrator, and filmmaker. After writing his first book, he took a break to create political cartoons and later worked with the U.S. Army’s animation and film department. Once he returned to writing children’s books, he never looked back, publishing 60 iconic stories that continue to captivate readers of all ages.
Recognizing Dr. Seuss’s influence on literacy, the NEA launched Read Across America in 1998 as a year-round program dedicated to promoting reading. His birthday, March 2nd, was declared Read Across America Day, marking the beginning of a weeklong and monthlong celebration of books.
How to Celebrate Read Across America Week
📚 Read a Book – The simplest way to honor this week is by diving into a great book! Whether it’s a childhood favorite, a modern novel, or an inspiring nonfiction piece, take some time to read and appreciate the magic of storytelling.
🎩 Celebrate Dr. Seuss – His books have left an undeniable mark on the literary world. Pick up a Seuss classic like The Cat In The Hat, Green Eggs and Ham or The Lorax, watch an animated adaptation, or even attend a live performance based on his work.
📖 Participate in Read Across America Events – Schools and libraries across the country host special reading events, guest storytimes, and volunteer opportunities to encourage literacy. Consider attending, bringing your child, or even hosting your own reading-themed gathering.
Five Fun Facts About Dr. Seuss
1️⃣ A Friendly Bet Led to a Classic – Dr. Seuss wrote Green Eggs and Ham using only 50 words after a friend bet he couldn’t do it. Challenge accepted—and won!
2️⃣ The Hat Trick – Whenever he had writer’s block, he put on one of his funky hats to get his creativity flowing.
3️⃣ Rhymes Run in the Family – He credited his mother’s bedtime chants for inspiring his rhythmic writing style.
4️⃣ Defying Expectations – His college classmates voted him “least likely to succeed.” Safe to say, he proved them wrong.
5️⃣ Not Just for Kids – He even wrote two adult books, one of which included unexpected illustrations—yes, nude drawings!
Why Read Across America Week Matters
📚 Reading Fosters a Lifelong Love for Learning – Whether you’re into fiction, history, self-improvement, or poetry, books open doors to new ideas and perspectives. Read Across America Week helps instill this habit in young readers while reminding adults of the joy found in a great story.
🧠 Reading Benefits Mental and Physical Health – Studies show that reading reduces stress, improves sleep, lowers blood pressure, and slows cognitive decline as we age. It’s a workout for the brain and a form of relaxation all in one!
📝 Reading Makes Us Smarter – From expanding vocabulary to enhancing comprehension, reading sharpens our minds. It also improves memory, strengthens writing skills, and fuels creativity. Simply put, reading makes us better thinkers.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Reading
Read Across America Week is a reminder that reading is more than just a skill—it’s an adventure, an escape, and a tool for lifelong growth. From the rhyming brilliance of Dr. Seuss to the countless stories that shape our understanding of the world, books have the power to spark imagination, inspire change, and bring people together.
So, grab a book, celebrate the joy of reading, and remember the words of Dr. Seuss:
“You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.”
Happy Reading!
Love,
Emma
EmmaCohan.com 