Study shows ‘kids learn best when they are allowed to select their own books’
Combating the “summer slide” can be easier than most educators and parents think. Studies have demonstrated that rather than forcing a summer reading list on children, allowing them to choose reading material of interest to them proves to be a more effective tool.

‘Flipped’ hits the big screen August 27
This coming-of-age novel written in 2001 by Wendelin Van Draanen is set to be released later this month. The novel, featuring a complicated middle school romance, will be released as a tie-in paperback on August 10 with a special photo insert and a Q&A with the author.

Let’s Read. Let’s Move. Philadelphia kicks off in First Book style
The citizens of Philadelphia have come together to engage their children in activities focusing on reading, exercise and eating healthy through the Let’s Read. Let’s Move. initiative. First Book donated a total of 170,000 books to the cause in Philadelphia with 400 books to kick off the launch.

‘Precious’ producers to tackle ‘Judy Moody’ next
Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer is making its debut on the big screen with production starting this month! This eight-book children’s series has been translated into over twenty languages and even inspired a spin-off series for boys with Judy’s brother Stink as the main character.

Screen Actors Guild Foundation launches book auction
The Screen Actors Guild Foundation has launched a book auction to benefit children’s literacy. From August 2 until August 17, you can bid on books autographed by famous actors. Proceeds from this online auction will go to the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation to benefit children’s literacy initiatives.