Library of Michigan Announces "The Runaway Garden" as Featured Title for "Michigan Reads!"

The Library of Michigan has announced that "The Runaway Garden" by Michigan author Jeffery Schatzer, illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler (Mitten Press, 2007), is the featured title for the 2010 "Michigan Reads!" program. 

Begun in 2004, "Michigan Reads!" is the state's official and original children's book program devoted to increasing early childhood literacy. Programming, events, and author visits are slated to take place throughout September and October 2010. 

Sponsored by the Library of Michigan Foundation in partnership with Target, the "Michigan Reads!" program recognizes the importance and value of libraries in providing quality books and additional programs and services to children and families in Michigan. These books and services provide a foundation for literacy, enabling future reading and school success.

The "Michigan Reads!" program is modeled after the "One Book, One Community" concept and is designed to emphasize the importance of shared reading practices with babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and young school-age children.

" 'The Michigan Reads!' program—thanks in large part to Target's support and commitment to childhood literacy—really has grown and thrived these last few years," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson. "It's wonderful to involve not just the children, but also their parents and other caregivers in the joy and excitement of reading, particularly since we know that strong reading skills are essential for achievement of education goals and success in life."

"The Runaway Garden" is an imaginative story. After a long day of pulling weeds, a tired little girl shares her desire to run away to escape from the drudgery of her chores. Her grandpa tells a humorous tale of a garden full of fruits and vegetables that decided to run away. While this seems a funny idea at first, it doesn't take long for things to take a wrong turn and the fruits and vegetables (and the little girl) to realize that everyone has a special job. Filled with clever rhyming text and melodic prose, the message accompanying the exquisite illustrations will captivate readers of all ages.

"I was very pleased to hear that 'The Runaway Garden' would be the 2010 'Michigan Reads!' book," said Schatzer. "Writing it was great fun, and the illustrations that Jeffrey Ebbeler created for the story really bring it to life. It will be a joy to travel to libraries this fall to share 'The Runaway Garden' with children all around Michigan."

Schatzer believes that kids "need books and reading in the same way they need food and love—they need books and reading to flourish and grow. At home, at school, at the library," he said, "when parents and caregivers read to children, great things happen—now, and years down the road."

For the fourth year in a row, Target continues its generous sole sponsorship of "Michigan Reads!" Thanks to Target's support, the Library of Michigan has provided a hardcover copy of the book and programming materials to all public libraries, elementary schools, Head Start, and Michigan School Readiness programs across the state. In addition, Target's support enables Schatzer to tour Michigan libraries and schools. The "Michigan Reads!" program provides librarians, early childhood educators, parents, and caregivers with ideas to help children develop literacy skills through play-based activities.

Since its inception in 2004, the program aims to promote the value and benefits of reading early and often to children, to encourage family bonding through reading, and to increase awareness and usage of Michigan's libraries as excellent resources for learning. More information about "Michigan Reads!," including dates and locations of author visits, is available at www.michigan.gov/michiganreads.