D.E.A.R. Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

Although the current national observance of D.E.A.R. Day is relatively recent, its origins date back much further.

The 12th of April marks D.E.A.R. Day, also known as Drop Everything and Read Day. As the name suggests, this holiday encourages everyone to devote a substantial portion of the day to reading. The date is a reference to the birthday of one of the most renowned American authors, Beverly Cleary, who created the concept of D.E.A.R. for the first time. This holiday is still celebrated in the United States and is a favourite of many schoolchildren.

The background of D.E.A.R. Day

Although the current national observance of D.E.A.R. Day is relatively recent, its origins date back much further. Several schools in the United States and abroad are commemorating this annual commemoration and incorporating curriculum-based activities to honour this special day. The concept was introduced for the first time in one of Cleary’s books. In her book “Ramona Quimby, Age 8,” the author introduces a nationwide initiative in which families dedicate 30 minutes to reading without interruptions.

In the 1960s, an earlier version of the Drop Everything and Read celebration was conducted in the United States as a reading activity for schoolchildren. These events did not occur on specific dates and were primarily school-related. This partially influenced Cleary’s decision to transform this activity into a national holiday in many of her novels.

To celebrate the 90th birthday of American author Beverly Cleary, the publisher HarperCollins Children’s Books, the National Education Association, and other educational institutions created D.E.A.R. Day in 2006. The original intention of the holiday was to promote silent, sustained reading as a school activity through a reading commemoration.

No longer are D.E.A.R. Day activities the same as they once were. Cleary’s works are largely responsible for the significance and festivities associated with this holiday. This day’s scheduled activities are a fitting tribute to Ramona Quimby’s nationwide campaign.

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D.E.A.R. DAY ACTIVITIES

Devote time to literature.

It is the primary activity and most significant aspect of this day’s celebration. There are many classics and contemporary bestsellers to choose from, but you should definitely read a Beverly Cleary novel.

Participate in activities

The majority of schools and public libraries will host a commemoration or community event. Oftentimes, these events are of general interest and open to the public, and they can be both engaging and rewarding.

Establish a reading group

Typically, this is a long-term endeavor, so starting one on D.E.A.R. Day is optimal. This will allow you to continuously read and discuss books with other members of the group. Additionally, you can join a book club.