Dec. 12, 2005

The Library of Michigan today announced "Bed Hogs" as the preschool book that captured the most votes for the March 2006 "Michigan Reads!" one-state, one-preschool-book program.

Written by local author Kelly DiPucchio (who grew up in Rochester and currently lives in Macomb Township), "Bed Hogs" is the engaging story of Little Runt, who grows weary of sharing a straw bed with his parents and siblings and kicks them out one by one.  Only when he has the bed all to himself does Little Runt realize it's scary and lonesome without his family around him. 

Four other librarian-selected books were in the running with "Bed Hogs" to be the 2006 Michigan Reads! title, including "Imogene's Antlers" by David Small; "In the Small, Small Pond" by Denise Fleming; "Sheep in a Jeep" by Nancy Shaw; and "Stranger in the Woods" by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick.

"Who knew that something good would finally come out of all those years of sleep deprivation?  I am absolutely thrilled that 'Bed Hogs' has been chosen by my home state as the 2006 Michigan Reads! one-state, one-preschool-book winner," said DiPucchio.  "As both an author and a parent, I am honored to be a part of a program that acknowledges the importance of early-childhood literacy in families.  'Hogs and kisses' to our wonderful Michigan libraries and to everyone who voted!"

"Congratulations to Kelly and to all the authors and illustrators whose work was selected to be a part of this year's Michigan Reads! ballot," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson.  "The Michigan Reads! program aims to get people excited about sharing words, ideas and stories with our youngest readers.  'Bed Hogs' is a terrific book around which libraries, parents and caregivers statewide can create meaningful reading experiences this coming March."

Michigan Reads! was launched in 2004 by the Library of Michigan in partnership with the Michigan Center for the Book to promote the value and benefits of reading early and often to preschoolers; to encourage family bonding through reading; and to increase awareness and usage of Michigan's hundreds of public libraries.  Learn more at www.michigan.gov/michiganreads.

This year, the program is sponsored by Brogan & Partners, Michigan Education Savings Program, Michigan Education Trust and the Library of Michigan Foundation.

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries, which also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.