(UNDATED) – March 2, 2020 is Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss’s Brithday.
According to research, a person’s ability to read is the best predictor of future success both in education and in life. That’s why it is so important to foster a love of reading at a young age. But it’s difficult to get children to read, let alone love doing it.
“Today, many children see reading as a boring activity that just can’t compete with the stimulation of technology…That’s why we need to get creative if we want to encourage a love of reading…”, says author and literacy advocate Carew Papritz.
From his unique series of “First Ever” book signings—on top of volcanoes, on horseback, while river-rafting, and in post-Castro Cuba (carrying with him children’s books and pen pal letters to give to a local Cuban school in Havana, donated and written by American elementary students across the US) — to his annual literacy-driven charity event, “The Great Book Balloon Launch,” and “I Love to Read” YouTube series, Papritz is making waves and promoting children’s literacy, all stemming from his desire to live life to the fullest, which is the central message behind his book, “The Legacy Letters.”
Last year, Carew and several students most notably created the World’s Largest Hand-Written Thank You Letter, Envelope, and Stamp in hopes to break the Guinness World Record.
“At the age of 14, I vowed to live a life full of adventure, sharing my unusual life stories, love of the great outdoors, and my passion for books,” says Papritz.
Teachable moments like this are few and far between and parents need to strike while the iron is hot. Mixing adventure and education, Papritz offers sage advice for families that is kid-friendly and fun.
Papritz is on a mission to promote literacy and curiosity in children through his innovative reading/literacy events and one-of-a-kind book signings.
These events are a way to bridge the gap between the need for digital stimulation and traditional literacy education. One of the main goals is to provide a new, interesting way to get kids inspired, learn new things, spark childhood fun & curiosity, and most importantly love reading.
In addition, he is very supportive of his community, donating proceeds of the book to Make-A-Wish, The Library Association, Reading is Fundamental, and many other literacy foundations around the country.
