The "one book" concept — community-wide reading programs where all participants read the same book during the same time frame — originated from the Washington Center for the Book in 1998 with "If All of Seattle Read the Same Book." The project was a tremendous success, and since then, similar "one book" programs have popped up in cities, communities and states throughout the country, including several here in Michigan.

These programs have many purposes, including celebrating books and reading, fostering an appreciation of literature, promoting lifelong learning and the joy of reading, and encouraging people to talk about books and make connections through literature and reading. Whatever the program aim, people who take part in the collective reading experience are sure to gain a great deal!

For the most part, the "one book" projects have concentrated on books for adults. While some have included components for children, Michigan Reads! is unique in that it highlights the importance of family literacy by focusing on a picture book for children ages 0 to 5.

For a listing of past and current "one book" projects, visit the Library of Congress Web site at http://www.loc.gov/loc/cfbook/one-book.html.

Updated 07/23/2007