Chandler dresses up as Tigger for Halloween at Miss Sherri’s preschool, 1980

The First Book National Book Bank is currently working with Random House Children’s Books to distribute more than 1.5 million new books donated by Random House to children across the country.

As I was helping the Book Bank team send out confirmation emails a few days ago, I noticed that one of the programs on my list happened to be in my small hometown in the mountains of North Carolina. As I looked closer I discovered that the program was a few blocks from my house. Furthermore, the contact was “Miss Sherri” a wonderful woman that ran the early childhood program I attended years and years ago.

I was so proud to be able to write to this local hero and say that First Book was going to be able to provide brand new books to her program. A few moments later I got the following email from Miss Sherri:

When I saw the name on the email from First Book, I thought — “I wonder if this is Susan & Jerry’s son that I taught in preschool?” Well, you could have knocked me over with a feather when I read your note! I am absolutely DELIGHTED to know that you are doing such meaningful work and sharing your love of reading with those less fortunate.

I can’t tell you how excited I am to be receiving so many books! Our center is operated by DSS (Division of Social Services) and we serve low income families as well as foster children and children under protective services. Many of the children here are developmentally delayed — especially in language. This is going to be such a thrill to be able to give them their own books. I just wish I had the words to adequately tell you how much this means to me and to our children. God Bless You and thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I still have great memories of Miss Sherri — one of the first people who taught me how to read — and I know firsthand the powerful difference she is making in children’s lives. I want to take a moment to thank Miss Sherri, and all the heroes like her across the country, for making such a difference in the lives of our children.