MAY 21, 2009

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land read to fourth- and fifth-graders at Cherry Street Intermediate School in Kalkaska today.

Land, accompanied by the Dr. Seuss character the Cat in the Hat, read the children's book, "America Is," written by Louise Borden and illustrated by Stacey Schuett.

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

The book highlights the diversity of people and places that make up America, and includes the Pledge of Allegiance and "The Star-Spangled Banner." Borden has written several children's books that focus on American history.

Throughout the spring, schools stress the importance of reading for future success in academics and in the workplace, and frequently invite guests in to read to children. Land has read to classes each year since becoming Michigan's secretary of state in 2003.