March 6, 2008

Art © 2003 by Howard Fine; used with permission of Henry Holt and Company.

"With the tremendous success of last year's Michigan Reads! and the program's continued growth each year, we expect hundreds of thousands of Michigan children to take part in sharing 'Raccoon Tune'," said State Librarian Nancy Robertson.  "It's a wonderful book, the kind that can jump-start young imaginations and the interest in reading that's so key to lifelong learning success."   

For the second year in a row, Target is the sole sponsor of Michigan Reads!   Thanks to Target's support, the Library of Michigan will provide a copy of the book and programming materials to public libraries, elementary schools, Head Start and Michigan School Readiness programs across the state.  Target's support will also allow the author of "Raccoon Tune" to tour libraries and schools in September.

"Raccoon Tune" - written by Ann Arbor resident Nancy Shaw and illustrated by Howard Fine - tells the story of a family of mischievous raccoons on a rollicking night outing, rifling through sleeping people's trash in search of treats.  According to School Library Journal, "Shaw's lively lines, all written from the animals' point of view, add to the humor of the simple story. Such phrases as 'Ash cans./Trash cans./How we love to crash cans,/Mash and smash and bash cans' beg to be read aloud. Playful illustrations expand the lighthearted mood of the story."

"I'm delighted that 'Raccoon Tune' has been chosen for this year's Michigan Reads! program," said Shaw.  "I've read about how important early reading and conversation are for young children. This program actively engages children to enjoy reading."

As she did last year, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm will be proclaiming September as Michigan Reads to Children Month, encouraging residents statewide to play an active role in Michigan Reads!

More information about Michigan Reads! 2008, including dates and locations of author visits, will be posted on the program's Web site at www.michigan.gov/michiganreads in the coming months.

Michigan Reads! began in 2004 as a new approach to the community-wide, "one book" programs gaining popularity throughout the country.  While most of these efforts focus on adults, Michigan Reads! is unique in that it features a book that young children will enjoy, encouraging parents, grandparents, caregivers, older siblings and volunteers to read to their younger family members.

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.  Since 2004, the Michigan Reads! program has evolved and now, with the help of the Michigan Department of Education, the program reaches out to include children through second grade in schools statewide. 

The Library of Michigan is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.  Dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, the Michigan Film Office and the Michigan Historical Center.  For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/hal. 

Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at 1,591 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today's best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Whether visiting a Target store or shopping online at Target.com, guests enjoy a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to thousands of unique and highly differentiated items. Target (NYSE:TGT) gives more than $3 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).