As I got to thinking about gratitude, I realized how thankful I am for the gift of reading, and those who fostered my love of books! Some of my earliest memories are of my Mom reading aloud chapters of Superfudge, The Indian in the Cupboard, and the Little House on the Prairie series to my brother and I before we went to bed. I remember the sense of wonder and excitement I felt the first time I read The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe all by myself. New worlds were opened to me, and couldn't get enough.My elementary school had a program where 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders could read books from an approved list and take quizzes on them at the end. It was a precursor of the "Accelerated Reader" or "AR" program that most schools participate in now. The ultimate prize was a $50 savings bond that could be earned by reading 100 books and passing the quizzes by the end of 5th grade. And these weren't just tiny picture books, they were actual CHAPTER books (that was a big deal in 3rd grade!). I made it my mission to get to that 100 book mark and with the encouragement of my teachers and parents, I am happy to say that I made it! I read my way to that savings bond!
As I grew older, I continued reading anything and everything. I finished high school and college with a book either in my hand or at my bedside (I had to sleep sometime!). Then, I got a job at the library, and finished my graduate degree in library science. It was such a great fit! Now, unfortunately I don't get to sit at the library and read as part of my official duties, but I do get to lead a wonderful book club and I am surrounded by folks who have made reading a major part of their lives. And for that, I am grateful.
**Here's an interesting follow-up story-- Not long after I started working at the library my Mom was cleaning out some old paperwork and found my original savings bond. I had never cashed it in, so I deposited my first professional paycheck and my savings bond at the same time!**
Happy Reading,
Jennifer
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