MARCH 12, 2009

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land read to students at Saranac Elementary School in Saranac today, marking the observance of March as National Reading Month.

Land, accompanied by the Dr. Seuss character the Cat in the Hat, read the children's book, "The Legend of Mackinac Island." It was written by Kathy-jo Wargin and illustrated by Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen.

"When parents read to their children, it promotes literacy and helps children do better in school," Land said. "I want to thank the teachers and staff of Saranac Elementary School for allowing me to visit and share my love of reading."

"The Legend of Mackinac Island" tells of the creation of Mackinac Island upon the back of the turtle Makinauk. It is based on Native American legends.

Land has taken time to read to schoolchildren during National Reading Month every year since assuming office in 2003.