Aug. 27, 2008

The Library of Michigan invites adults and children across the state to join in reading "Raccoon Tune" by Michigan author Nancy Shaw as part of Michigan Reads!, the one-state, one-children's-book program devoted to promoting early childhood literacy. The program is slated for September 2008, which Governor Jennifer Granholm has proclaimed Michigan Reads to Children Month.

State Librarian Nancy Robertson recognized Target as the sole sponsor of the 2008 Michigan Reads! program, with additional support from the Library of Michigan Foundation. The Library of Michigan has distributed to public libraries, elementary schools, Head Start and Michigan School Readiness programs a kit that includes a copy of "Raccoon Tune" along with a programming guide full of ideas and sample programs, information on early childhood literacy, a poster and more.

"As Michigan Reads! continues to grow each year - thanks in large part to Target's support and commitment to childhood literacy - we're able to help more children discover the joy and excitement of reading and assist parents' and caregivers' efforts to maximize the benefits of reading early and often to kids," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson.

The Library of Michigan will also present September author visits to libraries in Battle Creek, Bay Mills, Benton Harbor, Gaylord, Midland, Muskegon, Novi and Port Huron. To see the Governor's proclamation and learn more about Michigan Reads! - including tips for parents, supplemental reading activities for "Raccoon Tune," other early-literacy resources and an author tour schedule - visit www.michigan.gov/michiganreads.

"Raccoon Tune," written by Ann Arbor resident Nancy Shaw and illustrated by Howard Fine, tells the story of a family of mischievous raccoons on a rollicking night outing, rifling through sleeping people's trash in search of treats. Kirkus Reviews called the book "perfect from start to finish and impossible to read only once."

"I'm delighted that 'Raccoon Tune' has been chosen for this year's Michigan Reads! program. I've read about how important early reading and conversation are for young children. This program actively engages children to enjoy reading," said Shaw. "I'm looking forward to reading the book around Michigan, and it's wonderful to have the new Programming and Resource Guide."

For more information about this book and author Nancy Shaw, visit www.nancyshawbooks.com. To learn more about illustrator Howard Fine, who also illustrated 2006 Michigan Reads! selection "Bed Hogs," visit www.howardfineillustration.com.

Michigan Reads! began in 2004 as a new approach to the community-wide, "one book" programs gaining popularity throughout the country. While most of these efforts focus on adults, Michigan Reads! is unique in that it features a book that young children will enjoy, encouraging parents, grandparents, caregivers, older siblings and volunteers to read to their younger family members.

The program aims to promote the value and benefits of reading early and often to children, to encourage family bonding through reading and to increase awareness and usage of Michigan's libraries as excellent resources for learning. Since 2004, the Michigan Reads! program has evolved and now the program reaches out to include children through second grade in schools statewide.

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries. Dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the Michigan Historical Center. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.

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