Pick Up a Book, Pass It Around for Read Across America Day

Schools and libraries across the state and country today are participating in Read Across America Day with events that encourage the reading of books.

This year, the National Education Association, a group of more than 3.2 million educators who work in public schools, and several literacy and youth groups, are calling on book lovers around the nation to take up "The Lorax," the popular Dr. Seuss children's book published in 1971 about the lovable creature who fights to save the environment.

kicked off a weeklong list of activities at the as part of Read Across America Day.

Leading up to today, school officials said students in grades 7 and 8 had fun each day with activities based on a new Dr. Suess theme.

Tuesday was "Fox in Sox Day," when students wore crazy socks to school.

Wednesday was "Oh the Places You'll Go Day," when students wore shirts from places they have visited.

Thursday served as "One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish Day," when everyone was encouraged to wear red or blue.

And today is "The LoraxDay," when everyone is encouraged to wear green or a shirt with an environmental message on it as part of Read Across America Day.

Science classes today will focus on air pollution, one theme in "The Lorax." Language arts classes read the book Thursday to prepare for science classes. Social studies classes, meanwhile, have been reading "The Butter Battle," which teaches a lesson on rights. Teachers have also joined in the fun, filling out a sheet that explains their favorite books now on display in the hallway. 

Share your plans for celebrating Read Across America Day with Patch or on the Read Across America pledge site.  The NEA and Lorax' publisher, Random House, also have lesson plans and other materials, resources and printable activities available for teachers, parents and kids.