National Book Month
September 30, 2024
National Book Month is held each October. The month-long celebration focuses on the importance of reading, writing and literature. National Book Month is also a time to honor the country’s best books and authors. In mid-October, the National Book Awards announces the year’s 15 finalists. The National Book Foundation created the first National Book Month in 2003.
Why National Book Month is important
1. It encourages reading
The ultimate goal of National Book Month is to encourage reading — an activity with many proven benefits. Reading can help anyone develop better vocabulary, improve memory, expand knowledge, and lower stress.
2. It honors the greatest
National Book Month helps recognize the greatest books and authors, which in turn gives young children diverse role models. It’s important to show young people that literature and authors are still relevant and important.
3. It encourages family time
National Book Month encourages families to enjoy new books together. Reading aloud or discussing new works around the dinner table supports family time and bonding.