Read for the Record 2011

On October 6, millions of people across the globe will read the same book, Llama Llama Red Pajama, as part of Jumpstart’s Read for the Record. For the past five years, Jumpstart, a national education organization, has hosted this global event, bringing together celebrities like Bill Cosby, Justin Bieber, Vince Vaughn, Patti LaBelle, Matt Lauer, representatives on Capitol Hill, elected officials, parents, teachers, children and volunteers to help bridge America’s achievement gap. Hundreds of reading events and “pajama parties” will be taking place all across the country, and you and your readers can join in the fun!

This year, they need your help to set a new world record of 2.1 million readers. The simple act of reading with a child on this one day translates into year-long educational support for preschool children from low-income communities, many of whom grow up in homes without a single book.

The reality is that 1 in 3 children in the U.S. begins kindergarten behind, and most will never catch up. In fact, in states like California, for every child who isn't reading on the 4th grade level when tested, budget is planned for a jail cell*. Before they even enter school, children need to be equipped with fundamental literacy skills and taking the time to read with your kids is an easy way to ensure they’re prepared.

By pledging to read at www.readfortherecord.org before September 19, you will be entered to win a $77 gift card to 77Kids by American Eagle.

If you don’t own the book, it is being offered to read FREE online at www.wegivebooks.org.