I have always enjoyed reading James Patterson novels. I am a huge fan of murder mysteries. I like to see if I can figure out whodunit before the big reveal. But Patterson is also truly invested in getting children to read. The following is from his website ReadKiddoRead.
A few years ago, I realized my son, Jack, didn't exactly love books. We'd always read to him as a baby, and he was beginning to read for school. When he got home, him going to the shelf and picking up a book was about as likely as his pulling out a notebook and solving quantum physics problems. Actually, the latter was more likely. He's a smart kid.
So Sue and I took it on ourselves to fix the problem if we could.
Starting that summer, and every summer since, we went out and found books that I was pretty sure he'd not just read, but would love to read. That was a big part of the inspiration for READKIDDOREAD.
But, more than that, the experience with Jack got me writing books that I hoped he and other kids would love to read. Before then, I'd always written books just for grown-ups.
In fact, one of my proudest moments as a writer was when I passed him the manuscript of The Dangerous Days of Daniel X. Not only did he like it, he told me it was his favorite.
Anyhow, the Daniel X series, the Maximum Ride series, and the Witch & Wizard series were written for just this purpose. Jack got me writing books that I thought other kids would love. To contribute a few books that hopefully, will make kids readers for life.
Patterson has also started a summer reading program. You can go to James Patterson's Book Bucks and print out a pledge. Once children promise to read at least four books this summer (and register at the site), they are entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate redeemable at Buffalo Books in Ithaca.
HURRY! The first drawing will be in early July with additional ones throughout the summer!
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